Description
This Bowtie Pasta Ziti is a comforting baked pasta dish featuring al dente bowtie pasta combined with a savory meat marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfectly baked until bubbly and golden, garnished with fresh basil for a deliciously hearty meal that serves six.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
Meat 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
For Garnish
- Fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Assemble the Dish: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce until the pasta is evenly coated. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the pasta mixture into the dish. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the pasta layer. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, and then top with the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh basil. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty baked bowtie pasta ziti!
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with Italian sausage or even ground turkey for a leaner option.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
- Letting the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking helps the cheese set and makes serving easier.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor and melting quality.
- Feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
