Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Add the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese.
6. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of the cooked ziti pasta on top of the sauce.
7. Spread the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta. Add another layer of the meat sauce on top of the ricotta cheese.
8. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the meat sauce.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 530
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 105mg
Sodium: 930mg
Carbohydrates: 37g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 35g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef.
- Cottage cheese can be used instead of ricotta cheese.
- Any type of shredded cheese can be used instead of mozzarella cheese.
- Fresh basil and oregano can be used instead of dried.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce.
- Use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Add chopped spinach to the ricotta cheese mixture.
- Use penne pasta instead of ziti.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving so it sets up and is easier to cut.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the baked ziti in individual bowls or on plates. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
Garnishes:
Chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
Pairings:
Garlic bread and a green salad.
Suggested side dishes:
Garlic bread and a green salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the baked ziti is too dry, add a little bit of water or tomato sauce to the meat sauce before baking.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the United States. It typically consists of ziti pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese, and is baked until bubbly and golden brown.
Flavor profiles:
The baked ziti has a rich and savory flavor from the meat sauce and cheese. The pasta is tender and the cheese is melted and gooey.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the baked ziti with garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal.
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Region: Italian