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a baking dish with baked ziti garnished with fresh oregano leaves

Baked Ziti

AuthorRita
This baked ziti recipe is easy to make, super cheesy, and comforting. It's perfect for eating on a cold winter day to warm you up!
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Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Servings4 to 6 servings

Ingredients  

  • 14 oz ziti cooked al dente (400 g)
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • lean ground turkey 400 g
  • 1 1/2 cups tomato puree
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tsp salt
  • black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese 50 g
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese 250 g
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese 100 g
  • fresh oregano or basil to garnish optional

Instructions 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F ( 180 C ) and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large pan over medium heat, drizzle the olive oil and saute the onion and garlic for 2 minutes or until golden.
  3. Then, add the ground turkey seasoned with a pinch o salt, and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes or until cooked all the way through. Stir often to prevent burning.
  4. Next, add the tomato puree, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, mix everything, and cook on low heat for about 5 minutes. Stir often to prevent burning.
  5. When the pasta is al dente, drain and add the pasta to the tomato and turkey mix. Stir gently until well combined.
  6. Mix the ricotta with the parmesan cheese and set aside.
  7. Into a baking tray, pour a layer of half of the pasta mix first, then half of the ricotta mix on top of the ziti. Repeat this process one more time.
  8. Add the mozzarella cheese on top and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden. Garnish with fresh basil or fresh oregano and serve.

Notes

Don't overcook the pasta: Remember that the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so don't overcook the pasta. It should be al dente.
Store leftovers: This dish will last in the fridge on an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Make ahead: If you would like to prep this baked ziti ahead, you can do it! Keep the baking tray covered with plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 5 hours until it's time to bake.
Vegetarian version: For a vegetarian dish, replace the ground turkey with vegan mince.