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Baked ziti has long been celebrated as a quintessential comfort dish, embodying the essence of cozy family meals and hearty gatherings. Its rich combination of pasta, savory sauces, and gooey cheese creates a dish that not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul. Among the myriad of baked ziti recipes, the Cheesy Bliss Baked Ziti stands out as a particularly indulgent option, promising an abundance of flavor and a delightful texture that satisfies even the most discerning palates.

Baked Ziti with Three Cheeses

Indulge in the comforting goodness of Cheesy Bliss Baked Ziti, a classic dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings. This recipe combines al dente ziti pasta, a rich meat sauce, and layers of creamy cheeses for an unforgettable flavor experience. Easy to prepare, it appeals to cooks of all skill levels and warms the heart. Ideal for potlucks or cozy nights at home, this baked ziti is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together. Enjoy every delicious bite!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

28 oz can crushed tomatoes

2 cups marinara sauce

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the ziti.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until it becomes translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

        Brown the Meat: Increase the heat and add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until browned all over. If there’s excess fat, drain some of it from the pan.

          Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and marinara sauce, then sprinkle in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

            Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, the prepared meat sauce, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup). Stir everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated in sauce.

              Layer the Casserole: In a 9x13 inch baking dish, evenly spread half of the pasta mixture across the bottom. Add dollops of half of the ricotta cheese over the pasta, followed by a sprinkle of 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Top with the remaining pasta mixture and finish off with the rest of the ricotta cheese. Finally, add the remaining mozzarella cheese and the rest of the Parmesan cheese on top.

                Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and turns a beautiful golden brown.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once finished, let the baked ziti rest for 5-10 minutes to set. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 6-8

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the baked ziti in scoops directly from the baking dish, garnished with freshly chopped basil on top for a vibrant touch. Pair with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your cheesy bliss!