Ingredients
The Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Base
- 16 oz ziti pasta
- 2 jars (24 oz each) marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions on the next page 👇👇
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for ensuring even cooking of your delightful Baked Ziti.
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Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and set aside. You want it to have a little bite to it; this will contribute to the tremendous final texture.
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In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
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Stir in the marinara sauce and the cooked ziti pasta until everything is evenly combined. The sauce should envelop the pasta and meat, creating a tremendous symphony of flavors.
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In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese until blended.
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In your baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, followed by the cheese mixture. Then, top this with the remaining pasta. This layering will enhance the overall flavor profile and texture.
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Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses generously on top for that infamous cheesy top layer that makes every bite even more enjoyable.
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Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden, emitting an aroma that will draw everyone to the table.
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Let it cool slightly before serving. This cooling period allows the dish to set just enough so that each serving holds together perfectly. Garnish with fresh basil if desired for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Continue reading on the next page 👇👇