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Four Cheese Baked Ziti

This Four Cheese Baked Ziti is ultimate comfort food! Creamy cheeses and savory beef sauce make this cheesy pasta bake a family favorite that's easy to prepare.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces ziti pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup crumbled goat cheese
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce

  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

Add Sauce and Seasonings

  • Pour in 24 ounces of marinara sauce, then sprinkle in 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes to blend flavors.

Mix the Cheese Filling

  • In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups ricotta cheese, 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup crumbled goat cheese. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Assemble the Baked Ziti

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce across the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti pasta, then dollop and spread half of the ricotta and goat cheese mixture over the pasta. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella over the cheese layer. Repeat the layering process: remaining pasta, remaining cheese mixture, the rest of the meat sauce, and top with the remaining 1 cup shredded mozzarella.

Bake to Perfection

  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve

  • Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Colander
  • Oven mitts

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushy baked ziti after baking.
  • Drain excess fat from cooked beef to prevent greasiness.
  • Let the baked ziti rest before serving to help it set properly.
  • Use freshly shredded mozzarella and Parmesan for better meltiness.
  • Customize by swapping meats, adding veggies, or changing cheese types.