Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Umbro cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
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. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked ziti, Pecorino Umbro cheese, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream.
6. Add the tomato sauce to the bowl and mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
10. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- 6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 20g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pecorino Umbro cheese can be substituted with any other type of Pecorino cheese.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
Variations:
- Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to the tomato sauce for a meaty version.
- Add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to the tomato sauce for a vegetarian version.
- Use different types of pasta such as penne or rigatoni.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so that it doesn't become mushy in the oven.
- Use a good quality Pecorino cheese for the best flavor.
- Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers 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:
- Garnish with additional grated cheese and chopped fresh basil.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the baked ziti is too dry, add a little more tomato sauce or heavy cream before baking.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the pasta and tomato sauce to the proper temperature to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the United States in the 1950s.
Flavor profiles:
- The Pecorino Umbro cheese adds a salty and tangy flavor to the dish, while the tomato sauce provides a sweet and savory taste.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the baked ziti with a glass of red wine for a complete meal.
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Region: Italian