Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Queso Parma de Barinitas cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
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 the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
6. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, Parmesan cheese, Queso Parma de Barinitas cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
8. Pour the meat sauce over the pasta and stir to combine.
9. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
10. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
11. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 535
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 99mg
Sodium: 1020mg
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 35g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef.
- Any type of shredded cheese can be substituted for the Queso Parma de Barinitas cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to the meat sauce for added nutrition.
- Use different types of pasta such as penne or rigatoni.
- Add a layer of spinach or kale between the pasta and meat sauce for added greens.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use a good quality canned crushed tomatoes for the sauce.
- Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
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 bowls or on a large platter.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the top before serving.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Caprese salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pasta is too dry, add a splash of milk or cream to the mixture before baking.
- If the cheese is browning too quickly, cover the baking dish with foil for the last 10 minutes of 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:
This dish is savory, cheesy, and comforting.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the baked ziti with a glass of red wine for a cozy and delicious meal.
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