Savory Baked Ziti Casserole

Dive into the world of comforting Italian cuisine with this delicious Savory Baked Ziti Casserole recipe. Perfectly baked pasta, savory meat sauce, and layers of gooey cheese come together to create a mouthwatering experience that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

• 2 cups ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add chopped onions and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until onions are translucent.
5. Pour in the marinara sauce and add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Layer half of the cooked ziti in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the meat sauce.
7. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
8. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, meat sauce, and cheese.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
11. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting Savory Baked Ziti Casserole!

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Serves: 6

A delightful blend of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese, this Savory Baked Ziti Casserole is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect dish for any occasion.

Nutritional information: (per serving) Calories: 480, Fat: 22g, Carbohydrates: 42g, Protein: 28g

Concluding our culinary journey, this Savory Baked Ziti Casserole not only tantalizes the taste buds but also warms the soul. The rich layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to steal the show. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of this baked perfection fill your kitchen. Embrace the joy of cooking and indulge in the delightful essence of Italian cuisine with this recipe. Here’s to good food, good company, and the simple pleasure of savoring every bite.