Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound Marzotica cheese, grated
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Aluminum foil
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 mixing bowl, combine the Marzotica cheese, ricotta cheese, tomato sauce, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked ziti pasta to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 450
Total fat: 22g
Saturated fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 700mg
Total carbohydrates: 39g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 24g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Marzotica cheese can be substituted with mozzarella cheese or any other type of Italian cheese.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese or mascarpone cheese.
- Tomato sauce can be substituted with marinara sauce or any other type of pasta sauce.
Variations:
- Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to the cheese mixture for a meaty version.
- Add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to the cheese mixture for a vegetarian version.
- Use penne or rigatoni pasta instead of ziti for a different shape.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so that it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use a good quality tomato sauce for the best flavor.
- Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Storage instructions:
Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the leftover ziti covered with aluminum foil for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the baked ziti in individual bowls or on a large platter. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley.
Garnishes:
Fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley.
Pairings:
Serve the baked ziti 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 more tomato sauce or a splash of milk to the cheese mixture before baking.
- If the baked ziti is too watery, drain the pasta well before adding it to the cheese mixture.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the pasta and meat (if using) to the appropriate temperature to avoid foodborne illness.
Food history:
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in southern Italy. It is typically made with ziti pasta, tomato sauce, and a variety of cheeses.
Flavor profiles:
The Marzotica-Baked Ziti is a rich and creamy pasta dish with a savory tomato sauce and a blend of Italian cheeses.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Marzotica-Baked Ziti as a main dish for a family dinner or as a side dish for a potluck or party.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Hearty, Comforting, Tangy