Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 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 oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti 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 onion and garlic and cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese.
6. In the baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti, half of the meat sauce, and half of the cheese mixture. Repeat layers.
7. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- 8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 540
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 36g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped spinach or kale to the cheese mixture for added nutrition.
- Use different types of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn't become too soft when baked.
- Use a good quality Parmesan cheese 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 with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil or parsley
Pairings:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled asparagus
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the baked ziti is too dry, add a little bit of milk to the cheese mixture before layering.
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.
Flavor Profiles:
- Savory, cheesy, and slightly spicy.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish.
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