Ingredients
Note: Gram measurements do not adjust automatically with the serving multiplier.
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. When oil is heated through, add onion and garlic, sauteing until onions are slightly softened. Add ground beef (or meat of your choice) and cook until browned. Drain off most of the grease, leaving just a little behind in the pot. (See tip in post above.) Pour the marinara sauce into the pot and stir in salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, if using. Let simmer for 25 minutes, then remove from heat to cool down.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a large bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, 2 cups mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and egg. Set aside.
- Cook ziti in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and place in a large bowl. Add about 2 cups of the marinara meat sauce to the ziti. Stir to coat.
- In a 13x9 dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Layer half of the coated pasta on top, then half of the ricotta cheese mixture, half of the remaining meat sauce, and then half the remaining mozzarella cheese. Repeat with remaining pasta, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until top is lightly browned and sauce is bubbly. Let sit for 10 minutes prior to serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil.
STORAGE & MAKE AHEAD
- STORAGE: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- MAKE AHEAD: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble ziti lasagna and cover with aluminum foil PRIOR to baking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as instructed adding about 10-15 minutes more to the baking time.
Notes
FREEZING: Make sure your ziti lasagna has cooled completely after baking. Cover freezer-safe dish with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Label with name of the dish, date prepared, and reheating instructions. Freeze for up to 2 months.
REHEAT FROM FROZEN: When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. After thawed, remove plastic wrap and replace the foil. Bake at 350 degrees F for 30-35 minutes or until heated through. You can remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes, if preferred. Alternatively, you may bake from frozen at 350 degrees F for 55-60 minutes (be sure to remove plastic wrap and replace foil – you may remove foil for last 5-10 minutes).
