Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 lb ziti pasta
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Add the ground beef, browning until no pink remains. Stir in the diced onion and garlic, sautéing for 3-5 minutes until the onions are translucent. Pour in the marinara sauce and oregano, simmering on low for 10 minutes.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook for exactly 2 minutes less than the package directions for 'al dente.' Drain immediately.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta, beaten egg, Parmesan, salt, and pepper until smooth. Gently fold in the drained pasta and 2 cups of the shredded mozzarella.
  4. Pour the meat sauce over the pasta mixture and stir until every tube of pasta is coated in a velvety red glaze.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon the Easy Baked Ziti mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are bubbling and the cheese is melted.
  7. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is spotted brown.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and let it rest for 5 minutes.