Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat 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 heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
4. Add the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and water and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
6. Add the cooked ziti pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
7. Stir in the chopped parsley, basil, and Parmesan cheese.
8. Transfer the ziti mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
9. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 470
Fat: 19g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 33g
Sodium: 720mg
Sugar: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken.
- Crushed tomatoes can be substituted with tomato sauce or diced tomatoes.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with provolone or cheddar cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet when cooking the ground beef.
- Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
- Add chopped bell peppers to the skillet for extra flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Don't overcook the pasta or it will become mushy when baked.
- Use a good 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:
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 heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the baked ziti in individual bowls or on a large platter for a family-style meal.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for added color and flavor.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Caprese salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the pasta is too dry, add a little more water or tomato sauce to the skillet.
- If the cheese is not melted enough, place the baking dish under the broiler for a few minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make 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 southern regions of Italy. It is a popular comfort food that is often served at family gatherings and celebrations.
Flavor Profiles:
The baked ziti has a rich and savory flavor from the ground beef, tomato sauce, and Parmesan cheese. The mozzarella cheese adds a creamy and gooey texture to the dish.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the baked ziti with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
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Region: Italian