Classic Baked Ziti

photo credit: http://www.budgetsavvydiva.com

Do you like lasagna, but not the fuss? Make baked ziti instead! It’s a lot like a classic lasagna casserole, but easier to make and without lots of layers or broken noodles.

It makes for a perfect midweek or weekend meal, or a hot dish to bring to a potluck. Make extra and freeze for later.

This recipe is a pretty basic version, but everyone who makes baked ziti has their own unique tricks and twists to it. Some vary the cheeses, some the meat, some make meatless versions, and some people leave out the tomato sauce for a truly cheese-tastic casserole.

This version uses bulk Italian sausage, as well as a key fresh herb. In summer, that would be basil. In winter, rosemary. You could also easily use savory, sage, thyme or parsley.

Ziti is a pretty common pasta shape in most areas, but you can substitute penne pasta if you can’t find it. You want a substantial short pasta shape with places to hold the sauce and meat. You can assemble this ahead, and either refrigerate or freeze before you do the final baking.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup onion , chopped
• pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of pepper
• 2 garlic cloves , minced
• 1 (32 ounce) jar meatless sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon of Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
• 1 (16 ounce) package Ziti pasta , cooked and drained
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven at 350
2. In a large skillet – heat oil and cook onions for 8 minutes than add garlic and cook for one minute. Add beef and cook till no longer pink ( drain excess fat).
3. Stir in sauce, chicken broth, pepper, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and oregano. Heat through.
4. Stir 1 cup of sauce into the “cooked” ziti pasta.
5. Place 1/2 of the ziti into a 13×9 baking dish.
6. Place 1 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese
7. Top with rest of sauce.
8. Top with rest of pasta.
9. Cover and bake for 20 minutes.
10. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
11. Cook till cheese is golden brown
12. Enjoy

original recipe: http://www.budgetsavvydiva.com/2012/03/classic-baked-ziti-recipe/

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