Baked Ziti

This is a family favorite- often shows up at family gatherings when we need to feed a lot of people in a short amount of time. It also freezes well. Just bake, cool completely, and freeze. Thaw in fridge (takes a day to thaw) then pop in the oven for about 20 minutes to warm and dinner is served! Note: I usually use about 3 cups mozzarella- we like it extra cheesy!!! -Lois

1 lb. ziti pasta
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese
3 cups meat sauce (recipe below)

Meat sauce
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves minced garlic
1 lb. ground beef
1 small can tomato paste
1 lg. can tomato puree
1 lg. can crushed tomatoes
2 T oregano
2 T basil
2 T salt
2 T sugar
¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
1 can chicken broth

Saute onion and garlic until tender, add meat and brown. Add other ingredients, bring to boil and simmer to blend all about 45 minutes.

Cook ziti according to package directions.

Spread a little sauce in bottom of large casserole dish to prevent sticking. Then layer ziti, sauce, parmesan, and mozzarella twice. 

Cover with foil and bake at 325 until bubbly, about 35 – 45 minutes. Take foil off for last 10 minutes. Serve hot.