Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
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 and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef and garlic. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
7. Add the cooked ziti pasta to the skillet with the beef and marinara sauce. Stir to combine.
8. Transfer half of the ziti mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
9. Spoon half of the cheese mixture over the ziti in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining ziti and cheese mixtures.
10. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top of the ziti and cheese mixture.
11. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 550
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 800mg
Sugar: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef.
- Any type of pasta can be used in place of ziti.
- Any type of cheese can be used in place of mozzarella or Parmesan.
Variations:
- Add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the ziti mixture.
- Use a different type of meat such as Italian sausage or ground pork.
- Add a layer of sliced pepperoni or cooked bacon to the ziti mixture.
- Use a different type of cheese such as cheddar or provolone.
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 to allow the cheese to set.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the baked ziti in individual bowls or on plates. Garnish with additional chopped fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese.
Garnishes:
Chopped fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese
Pairings:
Garlic bread, salad
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
If the baked ziti is too dry, add a little more marinara sauce or a splash of milk to the cheese mixture.
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:
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the United States in the 1950s.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, tomatoey
Serving suggestions:
Serve the baked ziti as a main course for dinner.
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Region: Italian