Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Baking dish
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 heat until browned. Add onion and garlic and cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta, meat sauce, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 460
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 780mg
Sugar: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef.
- Any type of pasta can be used instead of ziti.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried herbs.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce.
- Use a combination of different cheeses, such as ricotta, fontina, and provolone.
- Add spinach or kale to the pasta mixture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use a high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving so it sets up and is easier to cut.
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 in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top before serving.
Pairings:
Serve with garlic bread and a green salad.
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts, would be a great side dish.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the pasta seems dry after baking, add a little more tomato sauce or a splash of milk to the mixture before baking.
Food safety advice:
Make 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 United States in the 1950s.
Flavor profiles:
The dish has a rich and hearty flavor from the meat sauce and cheese.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the baked ziti family-style in a large baking dish for a casual dinner.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Creamy, Herby, Garlicky, Tomato, Tomato-Y