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Baked Ziti Casserole comforting weeknight recipes inspo with side of garlic bread

Irresistible Baked Ziti Casserole Recipe for Comforting Weeknights


  • Author: ushinzomr
  • Total Time: 45 mins
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

A hearty baked ziti casserole perfect for weeknight dinners. Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook ziti according to package instructions. Drain.
  3. Brown ground beef with onion and garlic. Drain excess fat.
  4. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Combine cooked ziti with meat sauce.
  6. Transfer half the mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
  8. Add remaining pasta mixture and top with remaining cheese.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  10. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version
  • Add 1 cup ricotta cheese for extra creaminess
  • Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 recipe
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: baked ziti, casserole, pasta, Italian, weeknight dinner, comfort food