Baked Ziti: A Flavorful Pasta Bake

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Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the tomato sauce, stirring until well coated.
  6. Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the pasta, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
  7. Repeat with the remaining pasta mixture, ricotta cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
  8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.
  10. Garnish the Baked Ziti with chopped fresh basil leaves before serving.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this delicious Baked Ziti, you’ll need:

  • Large pot for cooking pasta
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Aluminum foil

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