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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes evoke the same sense of warmth and satisfaction as a hearty serving of Cheesy Baked Ziti with Garlic Bread Topping. This beloved dish represents the essence of home-cooked meals, combining the rich flavors of ziti pasta, savory meats, and gooey cheese all topped with a delectable garlic bread crust. Whether you’re seeking a dish to please picky eaters or aiming to impress guests during a festive gathering, Cheesy Baked Ziti is a versatile option that fits the bill perfectly.

Cheesy Baked Ziti with Garlic Bread Topping – Next-Level Pasta!

Indulge in the warmth of Cheesy Baked Ziti with Garlic Bread Topping, a classic comfort food that brings families together. This delicious dish features al dente ziti pasta layered with savory ground meat, rich marinara sauce, and a gooey blend of cheeses, all finished with a crispy garlic bread crust. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a heartwarming meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the delightful flavors and cherish the memories made around the table.
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ziti pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce

1 (15-ounce) ricotta cheese

1 large egg

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 loaf French bread, halved lengthwise

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté Vegetables and Meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

        Combine Ingredients: Stir in the marinara sauce, cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, egg, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper until well combined. Reserve 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese for topping.

          Combine with Cheese: Transfer the ziti mixture into a large baking dish. Top evenly with the reserved mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

            Prepare Garlic Bread Top: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, garlic powder, and fresh parsley. Spread this mixture generously onto the cut sides of the French bread. Place the garlic bread halves on top of the cheese.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the garlic bread is toasted.

                Serve: Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with additional parsley if desired. Slice the garlic bread and serve alongside the baked ziti.

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8