Authentic Baked Ziti Recipe United States of America, North America

Cheesy, saucy, hearty, and filling, baked ziti is a classic of the Italian-American cuisine, a layered casserole consisting of, at its most basic, ziti pasta, tomato sauce, and three types of cheese: mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan. The preparation starts with cooking the ziti pasta, usually only until halfway done since it will bake later as well. The tomato sauce is made next, and ricotta is often stirred into it before the dish is assembled. All the ingredients are then layered in a baking dish with mozzarella as the final layer. The assembled dish is baked in a preheated oven for up to 30 minutes and should be served once it's had at least five minutes of rest. Variations on the basic include adding ground meat, which can be cooked separately or with the sauce, various cooked vegetables, bacon, mushrooms, or using additional or different types of cheese. Baked ziti is typically served as an entrée but can also be a main dish if paired with a salad.