Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 cans of chopped clams (6.5 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large saucepan for making the clam sauce
- 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. Drain the clams, reserving the liquid.
4. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk and reserved clam liquid. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
6. Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Add the chopped clams and parsley to the sauce. Stir to combine.
8. Add the cooked ziti pasta to the sauce and stir to coat.
9. Pour the pasta and sauce mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
10. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta.
11. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Let the baked ziti with clam sauce cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 550
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Protein: 26g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of pasta instead of ziti.
- You can use canned or fresh clams.
- You can use any type of cheese instead of mozzarella.
Variations:
- Add cooked shrimp or scallops to the clam sauce for a seafood medley.
- Add chopped tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the pasta for extra flavor and color.
- Use a combination of different cheeses, such as Parmesan, cheddar, and Gouda.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta until al dente so that it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use a good-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover baked ziti with clam sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the baked ziti with clam sauce in individual bowls or on plates.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or basil
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add more milk or clam juice to thin it out.
- If the pasta is too dry, add more sauce or a splash of milk.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the pasta and sauce to the proper temperature to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Baked ziti is a popular Italian-American dish that originated in the United States in the 1950s.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve with a glass of white wine or sparkling water.
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Region: Italian