Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Large 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 instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Add the cooked ziti pasta to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Pour the ziti mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the ziti.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 463
- Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Protein: 32g
- Sodium: 1091mg
- Sugar: 11g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
- Ziti pasta can be substituted with penne or rigatoni.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese can be substituted with shredded provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Variations:
- Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the ziti mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use a combination of ground beef and ground Italian sausage for a more complex flavor.
- Top the baked ziti with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Drain any excess fat from the ground beef after browning to prevent the dish from being too greasy.
- Use a high-quality canned tomato product for the best flavor.
Storage Instructions:
- Leftovers 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 heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the baked ziti in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Shredded Parmesan cheese
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 splash of milk or cream to the ziti mixture before baking.
- If the cheese on top is not melted and bubbly, broil the dish for a few minutes until the cheese is 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 leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
- Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the United States in the 1950s.
Flavor Profiles:
- Savory
- Tangy
- Cheesy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the baked ziti hot with a side of garlic bread and a Caesar salad.
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Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Creamy, Rich, Comforting