Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking beef and onions
- 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, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
7. In the 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti pasta on the bottom.
8. Spread half of the meat sauce on top of the pasta.
9. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese mixture on top of the meat sauce.
10. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta cheese mixture.
11. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, ricotta cheese mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
12. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
13. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
14. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 550
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 105mg
Sodium: 1020mg
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 9g
Protein: 37g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef.
- Any type of pasta can be used instead of ziti.
- Cottage cheese can be substituted for ricotta cheese.
- Any type of shredded cheese can be used instead of mozzarella cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat sauce for extra veggies.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar, for a different flavor.
- Add a layer of cooked and crumbled Italian sausage to the meat sauce for extra flavor.
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 marinara sauce for the best flavor.
- Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving so that it sets up and is easier to cut.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the baked ziti in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the baked ziti on a large platter or in individual bowls.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top of the baked ziti for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Serve the baked ziti with garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, would be a great side dish for this baked ziti.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the baked ziti is too dry, add a little bit of extra marinara sauce or a splash of milk to the ricotta cheese mixture.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure that it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the United States in the 20th century.
Flavor profiles:
This baked ziti has a rich and savory flavor from the meat sauce and cheese.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the baked ziti family-style on a large platter or in individual bowls.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Herby, Garlicky, Creamy, Rich, Comforting