Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add the oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add the marinara sauce and water to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese and 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
8. Add half of the cooked ziti pasta to the baking dish.
9. Spread the ricotta cheese mixture over the ziti pasta.
10. Add the remaining ziti pasta to the baking dish.
11. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the ziti pasta.
12. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
13. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
14. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
15. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
16. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 518
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 98mg
Sodium: 1007mg
Carbohydrates: 41g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 36g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef.
- Any type of pasta can be used instead of ziti.
- Cottage cheese can be substituted for the ricotta cheese.
- Any type of shredded cheese can be used instead of mozzarella cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat sauce.
- Use a different type of cheese such as cheddar or provolone.
- Add cooked Italian sausage to the meat sauce.
- Use a different type of pasta such as penne or rigatoni.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to salt the pasta water before cooking the ziti to add flavor to the pasta.
- 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 microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the baked ziti in individual bowls or on plates. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
Fresh parsley
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 water to the meat sauce.
- If the cheese on top of the baked ziti 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 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 the United States. It is a popular comfort food that is often served at family gatherings and potlucks.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and tomatoey.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the baked ziti with garlic bread and a Caesar salad for a complete meal.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Rich, Comforting, Hearty