Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
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 oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add diced onion and garlic, and cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. In the baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti pasta on the bottom. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, then top with half of the meat sauce. Repeat with remaining pasta, ricotta mixture, and meat sauce.
7. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the dish.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 550
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 36g
Sodium: 950mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef
- Cottage cheese can be substituted for ricotta cheese
- Any type of pasta can be used in place of ziti
Variations:
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat sauce
- Use a combination of different cheeses, such as fontina or provolone
- Add a layer of cooked spinach or kale between the pasta and ricotta mixture
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked
- Use a high-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:
Reheat 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.
Garnishes:
Fresh basil leaves
Pairings:
Garlic bread, Caesar salad
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli
Troubleshooting advice:
If the pasta seems dry after baking, add a little extra marinara sauce or a splash of milk to the dish before reheating.
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 southern region of Italy. It typically consists of ziti pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese, and is often served at family gatherings and special occasions.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, tomato-y
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
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Region: Italian