Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (24-ounce) jars of your favorite marinara sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic and cook until the beef is browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
6. Pour the beef and marinara mixture into the bottom of the 9x13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with the ziti and cheese mixture.
8. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8
Nutritional Information: Calories: 590, Fat: 24g, Carbohydrates: 61g, Protein: 28g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or ground chicken.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with cheddar cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Romano cheese.
- Parsley can be substituted with basil or oregano.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped bell peppers to the beef and marinara mixture.
- Add 1/2 cup of sliced mushrooms to the beef and marinara mixture.
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked Italian sausage to the beef and marinara mixture.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to cook the ziti until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use your favorite marinara sauce for the best flavor.
- For a cheesier dish, add an additional 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
Storage Instructions:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread and a green salad.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or basil
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Pairings:
- A dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- A light red wine, such as Pinot Noir
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Green salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dish is too dry, add an additional 1/2 cup of marinara sauce.
- If the dish is too wet, add an additional 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Food Safety Advice:
- Be sure to cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink.
- Be sure to store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Food History:
- Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that is believed to have originated in the early 1900s.
Flavor Profiles:
- This dish has a savory and cheesy flavor with a hint of garlic and parsley.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish with a side of garlic bread and a green salad.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Rich, Comforting, Hearty