Classic Baked Ziti

What you’ll need

6 tools across 5 steps.

• pot (optional for boiling)Essentialstep 1
• colanderEssentialstep 1
• skilletEssentialstep 2
• mixing bowlEssentialstep 3
• baking dish (9x13 inch)Essentialstep 4
• oven (with grill function)Essentialstep 5

Method

1. 1

   Cook the Pasta

   Cook the Pasta

   Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).

   Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 450 g of ziti pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). You want it slightly undercooked as it will continue to cook in the oven.

   Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside.

   Don't rinse the pasta after draining. The starch on the surface helps the sauce and cheese adhere better.

   Cook pasta: 9 minpot (optional for boiling)colander
2. 2

   Prepare the Meat Sauce

   Prepare the Meat Sauce

   While the pasta is cooking, heat the 15 ml of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

   Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the 500 g of ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, then drain off any excess fat.

   Stir in the 800 g of crushed tomatoes, 5 g of oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it gently simmer for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

   For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of red wine after browning the meat and let it cook off before adding the tomatoes.

   Simmer sauce: 15 minskillet
3. 3

   Combine Pasta and Cheeses

   Combine Pasta and Cheeses

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the 450 g of ricotta, half of the 50 g of Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

   Add the drained, cooked ziti to the bowl. Then, add about half of the meat sauce (approx. 2 cups) to the pasta and ricotta mixture. Stir gently until everything is well combined.

   Adding some sauce to the pasta and ricotta mixture ensures every bite is flavorful and prevents the casserole from being dry in the middle.

   Timer: 5 minmixing bowl
4. 4

   Assemble the Casserole

   Assemble the Casserole

   Spread a thin layer of the remaining meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch (or similar 3-quart) baking dish. This prevents the pasta from sticking.

   Pour the ziti and ricotta mixture into the dish and spread it into an even layer.

   Top with the rest of the meat sauce. Sprinkle the 250 g of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the remaining grated parmesan cheese.

   For an extra crispy cheese topping, you can lightly spray the top with cooking spray before baking.

   Timer: 3 minbaking dish (9x13 inch)
5. 5

   Bake and Serve

   Bake and Serve

   Bake in the preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.

   Remove from the oven and let the baked ziti rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set, making it easier to cut and serve.

   Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal for 6 people!

   If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.

   Bake ziti: 20 minRest ziti: 10 minoven (with grill function)