When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes can beat Baked Ziti. Made with tender ziti pasta, savory tomato sauce, and a blend of melted cheeses, this dish is the ultimate in cozy and comforting fare. Whether you're looking for a hearty meal after a long day or simply craving something warm and comforting on a chilly night, Baked Ziti is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
1 pound ziti pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound ground beef
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and set aside.
Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the ground beef, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chopped basil. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked ziti, meat sauce, Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Pour the heavy cream over the top of the pasta mixture, and then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
