Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Spread half of the ziti mixture into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. Spoon half of the meat sauce over the ziti mixture.
8. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the meat sauce.
9. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
10. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 520
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 98mg
Sodium: 798mg
Carbohydrates: 43g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 35g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef.
- Cottage cheese can be used instead of ricotta cheese.
- Any type of hard cheese can be used instead of Parmesan cheese.
- Any type of shredded cheese can be used instead of mozzarella cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meat sauce.
- Use different types of pasta such as penne or rigatoni.
- Add a layer of cooked spinach or kale between the ziti mixture and meat sauce.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente so it doesn't become too soft when baked.
- Use a good quality canned crushed tomatoes 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 microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the baked ziti in individual bowls or on plates with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.
Garnishes:
Fresh parsley or basil can be used as a garnish.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Caprese salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the baked ziti is too dry, add a little bit of water or tomato sauce to the meat sauce.
- If the cheese is browning too quickly, cover the baking dish with foil.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Malga Fane is a mountain hut in the Dolomites in Italy. Baked ziti is a popular Italian-American dish that originated in the United States.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, tomato-y
Serving suggestions:
Serve the baked ziti with a glass of red wine for a complete meal.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Rich, Comforting, Hearty