Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
4. Add the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, tomato sauce, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well.
6. Spread half of the ziti mixture in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat with the remaining ziti mixture and mozzarella cheese.
7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 600mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
- Crushed tomatoes can be substituted with tomato sauce or diced tomatoes.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet when cooking the ground beef.
- Use a combination of different cheeses, such as ricotta, provolone, or fontina.
- Add chopped spinach or kale to the ziti mixture for extra nutrition.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use a high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Storage instructions:
Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the baked ziti in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the baked ziti in individual bowls or on a large platter for a family-style meal.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the baked ziti is too dry, add a little extra tomato sauce or a splash of milk to the ziti mixture before baking.
- If the cheese on top of the baked ziti is not melted and bubbly, broil for a few minutes until golden brown.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the ground beef 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 early 1900s.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the baked ziti with a glass of red wine for a cozy and comforting meal.
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Region: Italian