Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, 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-high heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked ziti pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Pour the meat sauce into the bowl with the pasta and cheese mixture and stir to combine.
8. Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish and sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
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. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 550
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 790mg
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 35g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with provolone cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped bell peppers and mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use penne pasta instead of ziti pasta for a different shape.
- Add a layer of cooked spinach or kale between the pasta and meat sauce for a healthier version.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use a good quality canned crushed tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Storage instructions:
Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the baked ziti in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, place the baked ziti in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the baked ziti in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or extra grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Pairings:
Serve the baked ziti with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Caprese salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the baked ziti is too dry, add a little bit of water or tomato sauce to the mixture before baking.
- If the cheese is not melted and bubbly, broil the dish for a few minutes until the cheese is golden brown.
Food safety advice:
Make 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 southern regions of Italy. It is typically made with ziti pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese.
Flavor profiles:
The baked ziti has a rich and savory flavor from the meat sauce and cheese.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the baked ziti hot and garnished with fresh herbs for a comforting and satisfying meal.
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Region: Italian