Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Baking dish
- Aluminum foil
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 skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Add chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta, meat sauce, and cheese mixture. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 520
Fat: 23g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 720mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
- Marinara sauce can be substituted with homemade tomato sauce or canned crushed tomatoes.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese or cream cheese.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with provolone or cheddar cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use penne pasta instead of ziti for a different shape.
- Add a layer of sliced pepperoni or cooked Italian sausage on top of the cheese mixture for a meatier version.
Tips and tricks:
- Don't overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a good 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:
Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the baked ziti in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the baked ziti in individual bowls or on a large platter. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Garnishes:
Fresh parsley or basil leaves
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 more marinara sauce or a splash of milk to the cheese mixture before baking.
- If the cheese is not melted and bubbly, broil the baked ziti for a few minutes until golden brown.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftover baked ziti in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in southern Italy. It is traditionally made with ziti pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese, and baked in the oven until golden brown and bubbly.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy from the tomato sauce.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the baked ziti as a main dish for dinner or as a side dish for a potluck or party.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Rich, Hearty, Comforting