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
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups 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. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, meat sauce, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
6. Pour half of the ziti mixture into the baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Repeat with the remaining ziti mixture and mozzarella cheese.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 8-10 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 445
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 31g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
- Crushed tomatoes can be substituted with diced tomatoes.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra flavor.
- Use penne pasta instead of ziti.
- Add a layer of ricotta cheese to the ziti mixture for a creamier texture.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a good quality mozzarella cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- 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 the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat, cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the baked ziti in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the baked ziti is too dry, add a little more tomato sauce or pasta water to the mixture before baking.
Food Safety Advice:
- Be sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is fully cooked.
Food History:
- Baked ziti is a popular Italian-American dish that originated in the United States in the 20th century.
Flavor Profiles:
- Savory, tangy, and cheesy.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Tomato, Herby, Garlicky, Rich, Tomato-Y