Description
This Bowtie Pasta Ziti is a hearty and comforting baked pasta dish featuring al dente bowtie pasta tossed in a flavorful meat marinara sauce, layered with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, then baked until bubbly and golden. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it combines classic Italian flavors with an easy-to-follow preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
Meat and Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheeses
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the assembled pasta dish.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper, then simmer the sauce for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked pasta thoroughly with the meat sauce until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the pasta and meat sauce mixture evenly in the dish. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese on top, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Layer the remaining pasta mixture on top, and finish by sprinkling the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the surface.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the top. Serve warm and enjoy this satisfying pasta casserole.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, use Italian sausage with fennel and chili flakes.
- Allow the baked ziti to rest for 5 minutes before serving to set.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Make ahead by assembling in advance and refrigerating; bake before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
