Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 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
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Skillet
- 9x13 inch 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, brown ground beef over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and garlic and cook until softened.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, mix together cooked ziti pasta, meat sauce, and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Pour half of the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat with the remaining pasta mixture and shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- 8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Protein: 29g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
- Crushed tomatoes can be substituted with tomato sauce or diced tomatoes.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use different types of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni.
- Add a layer of ricotta cheese in between the pasta and shredded mozzarella cheese for a creamier texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta until al dente to prevent it from becoming too mushy when baked.
- Use a high-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:
- Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the baked ziti 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
- Steamed broccoli
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the baked ziti is too dry, add a little bit of water or tomato sauce to the mixture before baking.
- If the cheese is not melted and bubbly, broil for a few minutes until golden brown.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the southern regions of Italy.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, cheesy, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot with a side of garlic bread and a Caesar salad.
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Region: Italian