Classic Baked Ziti: A Comforting Italian-American Favorite

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Baked Ziti Recipe

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

  • For the Sauce:

    • 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
    • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
    • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
    • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
    • 1/2 cup (120ml) water
    • 2 tablespoons sugar
    • 1 teaspoon dried basil
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
    • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
    • Salt and pepper to taste

  • For the Cheese Mixture:

    • 15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese
    • 1 large egg
    • 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
    • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)

  • For the Pasta:

    • 1 lb (450g) ziti or penne pasta
    • 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
    • 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
    • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sauce:

    1. In a large skillet or saucepan, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
    2. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
    3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
    4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Mix well to combine.
    5. Add the sugar, dried basil, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    6. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer, stirring occasionally, for at least 20 minutes. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors will meld together.

  2. Cook the Pasta:

    1. While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

    1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

  4. Assemble the Baked Ziti:

    1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with half of the sauce. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
    3. In a large baking dish (9x13 inch), spread a thin layer of the remaining sauce on the bottom.
    4. Add half of the pasta mixture to the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
    5. Drop spoonfuls of the cheese mixture over the pasta layer and spread it gently with the back of a spoon.
    6. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top of the cheese layer.
    7. Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the pasta and spread it out evenly.
    8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

  5. Bake the Ziti:

    1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
    2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
    3. Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

  6. Serve:

    1. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
    2. Serve hot, alongside a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Enjoy your homemade baked ziti!




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