Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is softened.
4. Add the marinara sauce, water, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese and 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. In the baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti pasta on the bottom. Top with half of the meat sauce, then half of the ricotta cheese mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese mixture.
7. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the ziti.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 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 (190°C)
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 529
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 99mg
Sodium: 1036mg
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 35g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef.
- Any type of pasta can be used instead of ziti.
- Cottage cheese can be substituted for ricotta cheese.
- Any type of shredded cheese can be used instead of mozzarella cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat sauce.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as fontina or provolone, instead of mozzarella.
- Add a layer of sliced pepperoni or cooked sausage to the ziti.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a good quality marinara sauce 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 microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the baked ziti in individual bowls or on plates, garnished with fresh parsley or basil.
Garnishes:
Fresh parsley or basil.
Pairings:
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the baked ziti is too dry, add a little more marinara sauce or water to the meat sauce.
- 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:
Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) 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 early 20th century.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and comforting.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the baked ziti with a glass of red wine for a complete meal.
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Region: Italian