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Ina Garten Baked Ziti Recipe

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ziti or penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 jar 24 oz marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
  • 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Step 1 – Cook the Pasta
  • Bring a pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Step 2 – Prepare the Sauce
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Sauté onion until soft. Add garlic, then brown the beef or sausage. Stir in oregano, red pepper flakes, marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, and basil. Simmer for 15–20 minutes.
  • Step 3 – Assemble the Layers
  • In a greased baking dish, spread half the pasta, half the sauce, dollops of ricotta, and mozzarella. Repeat with remaining pasta and sauce. Top with mozzarella and parmesan.
  • Step 4 – Bake Until Bubbly
  • Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
  • Step 5 – Rest and Serve
  • Let baked ziti rest 5–10 minutes before serving so the layers set.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook pasta – Stop at al dente since it keeps cooking in the oven.
  • Drain the meat – Too much grease makes the sauce heavy.
  • Layer cheeses – Don’t mix them all in at once; layering gives gooey pockets.
  • Rest before serving – Prevents it from falling apart.
  • Taste sauce as you go – Under-seasoning is a common mistake.