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 (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- 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 skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is softened.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta and the sauce. Mix well.
7. Transfer the ziti mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the ziti.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top of the ziti.
12. Let the ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 487
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 1076mg
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 33g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
- Ziti pasta can be substituted with penne or rigatoni.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese can be substituted with shredded provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for a richer flavor.
- Add chopped spinach or kale to the ziti mixture for a healthier twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so that it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use a high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Let the 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 ziti in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the ziti in individual bowls or on a large platter.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle additional chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the ziti before serving.
Pairings:
Serve the ziti with a side salad and garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Caprese salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the ziti is too dry, add a little extra tomato sauce or a splash of milk to the mixture before baking.
- If the ziti is too saucy, reduce the amount of tomato sauce in the recipe.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure that it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the southern region of Italy. It is typically made with ziti pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese, and is often served at family gatherings and special occasions.
Flavor profiles:
The Superciser Baked Ziti has a rich and savory flavor, with a hint of spice from the red pepper flakes.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Superciser Baked Ziti as a main course for dinner or as a hearty lunch.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Rich, Hearty, Comforting