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 salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking meat and sauce
- 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, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, oregano, and basil. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked ziti, Parmesan cheese, and ricotta cheese.
7. Spread half of the ziti mixture into the bottom of the baking dish. Top with half of the meat sauce and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat with the remaining ziti mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 580
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 36g
Sodium: 1140mg
Sugar: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef.
- Cottage cheese can be substituted for the ricotta cheese.
- Any type of shredded cheese can be substituted for the mozzarella cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped spinach or kale to the ziti mixture for extra nutrition.
- Use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage for a more complex flavor.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Be 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:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the baked ziti in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the baked ziti in individual bowls or on plates, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
Garnishes:
Fresh basil or 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 tomato sauce or a splash of milk to the ziti mixture before baking.
- If the cheese on top is browning too quickly, cover the baking dish with foil and continue baking.
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 promptly in the refrigerator.
Food history:
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the southern regions of Italy. It is typically made with ziti pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese, and is a popular comfort food in the United States.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, tomato-y, slightly spicy
Serving suggestions:
Serve the baked ziti with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Creamy, Rich, Comforting