Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. ziti pasta
- 1 lb. ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 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 turkey over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. In the 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti pasta on top of the sauce.
7. Spread the ricotta cheese mixture over the ziti pasta. Add the remaining ziti pasta on top of the ricotta cheese mixture.
8. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the ziti pasta. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 650mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 32g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey can be substituted with ground beef or ground chicken.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Romano cheese.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with provolone cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped spinach or kale to the ricotta cheese mixture for added nutrition.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the tomato sauce for added flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so 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:
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 on a large platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.
Garnishes:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Pairings:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the baked ziti is too dry, add a little bit of water or tomato sauce before reheating.
- If the cheese is browning too quickly, cover the baking dish with foil and continue baking.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the ground turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the United States in the early 20th century.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, tomatoey
Serving suggestions:
Serve with garlic bread and a Caesar salad for a complete meal.
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Region: Italian