Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 cup water
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
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 chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
7. Add the cooked ziti pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
8. Transfer the ziti and sauce mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 536
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Protein: 33g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 1044mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or ground chicken.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese can be substituted with shredded provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Variations:
- Add cooked Italian sausage or sliced pepperoni to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for added vegetables.
- Use penne or rigatoni pasta instead of ziti.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta until al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use a good quality canned tomato product for the sauce.
- Let the sauce simmer for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the baked ziti in individual bowls or on a large platter.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Caprese salad
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water or heavy cream to thin it out.
- If the pasta is too dry, add a little more sauce or a drizzle of olive oil.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is fully cooked.
Food history:
- Caruso sauce is a tomato-based sauce that originated in Italy. It is named after the famous Italian tenor, Enrico Caruso.
Flavor profiles:
- The Caruso sauce is savory and slightly spicy, with a creamy and cheesy finish.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the baked ziti hot and fresh out of the oven for the best flavor.
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Region: Italian