Baked Ziti

Ingredients

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion
• 4 clove garlic
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 6 oz tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook ziti according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat. Add chopped onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes.
4. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, egg, and optional parsley.
5. Combine the cooked ziti with the meat sauce. Spread half of the ziti mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the ricotta mixture, then cover with the remaining ziti mixture.
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.