Paula Deen Baked Ziti Recipe
This Paula Deen Baked Ziti Recipe is pure comfort food. It is perfect for a cozy family dinner tonight. You will love how cheesy and warm it tastes.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta noodles.
- 1 pound ground beef or sausage.
- 1 jar marinara sauce 24 ounces.
- 1 container ricotta cheese 15 ounces.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese.
- 1 large egg lightly beaten.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions
- Cook the ziti in a large pot of water. Drain it when it is still slightly firm.
- Cook the beef in a skillet until brown. Drain any extra fat from the pan.
- Stir the marinara sauce into the cooked meat. Let it simmer on low heat for five minutes.
- Mix ricotta, egg, and spices in a bowl. Add half of the mozzarella cheese here.
- Toss the pasta with the red meat sauce. Layer half in the baking dish with cheese.
- Add the rest of the pasta and cheese. Sprinkle parmesan over the very top.
- Bake at 350 degrees for thirty minutes. The cheese should be bubbly and brown.
Notes
- Do not overcook the pasta in the pot.
- It finishes cooking inside the hot oven later.
- Use high-quality ricotta cheese for a better texture.
- You can add extra garlic for more bold flavor.
- Let the dish sit for ten minutes before serving.
- This helps the layers stay together when cutting.