Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. ziti pasta
- 1 cup Casu Cundhídu cheese, grated
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp. dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine Casu Cundhídu cheese, mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the cheese mixture. Mix until the pasta is coated evenly.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
5. Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 490
- Fat: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 24g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Sugar: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Casu Cundhídu cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the pasta mixture for a meaty version.
- Add chopped spinach or kale for a healthier version.
- Use different types of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Mix the pasta and cheese mixture well to ensure that the pasta is coated evenly.
- Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burns.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat leftover baked ziti in the 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.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil or parsley.
Pairings:
- Serve with garlic bread or a side salad.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Side salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the baked ziti is too dry, add more tomato sauce or heavy cream.
- If the baked ziti is too watery, reduce the amount of tomato sauce or heavy cream.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the pasta and meat (if using) to the appropriate temperature to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Casu Cundhídu is a traditional Sardinian cheese made from sheep's milk.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish for dinner.
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