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To create the perfect Cheesy Baked Ziti, it’s essential to understand the core components of the dish. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, ensuring a satisfying and delicious meal. Let’s explore these ingredients in detail:

Cheesy Baked Ziti with Garlic Bread Topping – Next-Level Pasta!

Experience the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Baked Ziti! This classic Italian-American dish perfectly combines ziti pasta, savory meat sauce, and rich layers of ricotta and melty mozzarella cheese, topped with a crispy garlic bread layer. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is easy to follow and customizable to suit any taste. Gather your loved ones and indulge in a heartwarming culinary journey that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ziti pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 large egg

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 loaf of French bread

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Ziti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef (or sausage) to the skillet, breaking it apart and cooking until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

        Mix the Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until everything is well combined.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti with the meat sauce. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the mozzarella cheese (1.5 cups), and half of the Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup). Stir until smooth and well-combined.

            Assemble the Dish: In a large baking dish (about 9x13 inches), spread half of the ziti mixture on the bottom. Spoon the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta, then top with the remaining ziti. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

              Prepare the Garlic Bread Topping: Slice the French bread in half lengthwise. In a bowl, mix softened butter, garlic powder, and chopped parsley (if using). Spread the garlic butter mix evenly over both halves of the bread.

                Bake the Ziti: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, then place the garlic bread on a separate baking sheet and add it to the oven. Bake both the ziti and garlic bread for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden.

                  Serve & Enjoy: Once done, let the ziti sit for 5 minutes before serving. Slice the garlic bread and serve it alongside the cheesy baked ziti for a perfect comforting meal!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 60 mins | Serves 6-8