2 Layer Baked Ziti Recipe

Ingredients for 2 Layer Baked Ziti

• 1 medium onion, chopped
• Garlic Cloves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 24 ounces spaghetti sauce
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• Ziti Pasta
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make 2 Layer Baked Ziti

1. Sauté 1 medium onion, chopped, in 2 tablespoons olive oil until tender (about 5 minutes).
2. Add 2 cloves garlic, minced, and sauté for 1 minute more.
3. Crumble 1 pound ground beef into the pan and brown, breaking it up with a spoon.
4. Drain off excess grease from the beef mixture and return it to the pan.
5. Stir in 24 ounces your favorite spaghetti sauce, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Set aside.
6. Melt 1/4 cup butter in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour until smooth.
7. Cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly, until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
8. Gradually whisk in 3 cups milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes bubbly.
9. Stir in 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
10. Stir until well combined.
11. Cook 1 pound ziti pasta according to package directions. Drain and add to the Alfredo sauce, stirring to coat the noodles evenly.
12. Transfer the Alfredo ziti mixture to a lightly greased 9x13 inch casserole dish.
13. Top evenly with the ground beef and spaghetti sauce mixture.
14. Sprinkle generously with 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
15. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.