Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for cooking sausage
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook Italian sausage until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta, cooked sausage, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 550
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 49g
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 1200mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of pasta instead of ziti.
- Ground beef or turkey can be used instead of Italian sausage.
- Any type of tomato-based pasta sauce can be used instead of marinara sauce.
- Cottage cheese can be used instead of ricotta cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use different types of cheese such as cheddar or provolone.
- Add a layer of cooked spinach or kale for added nutrition.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Drain any excess fat from the cooked sausage to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.
- Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual bowls or on a large platter for family-style serving.
Garnishes:
Chopped fresh parsley or basil.
Pairings:
Garlic bread or a side salad.
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables or a Caesar salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the dish becomes too dry, add a little bit of water or tomato sauce before baking.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the sausage 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 in the 1950s.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a salad.
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Region: Italian