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Easy Baked Ziti

Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

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Indulging in a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to the table is what this Easy Baked Ziti Recipe is all about. Bursting with layers of rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, this hearty pasta bake is perfect for casual weeknight dinners or special gatherings with friends and family. The combination of ziti or penne pasta with savory herbs and spices creates a delightful flavor profile that everyone will love. With simple preparation and minimal fuss, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds in no time!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb turkey or chicken sausage
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup finely chopped white onion
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup finely chopped red bell pepper
  • 2 (20 oz) bottles marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 lb ziti or penne pasta
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage, onion, and bell pepper; cook until softened.
  3. Stir in garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds before adding marinara sauce, dried parsley, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Cook ziti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and return to pot.
  5. Mix half of the marinara sauce into the pasta. Layer half of the ricotta on top of the sauce in a casserole dish.
  6. Add the pasta mixture evenly over the ricotta layer. Top with remaining sauce, dollops of ricotta, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella.
  7. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

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