Baked Ziti

The definition of cozy, oven-baked pleasure is baked ziti, a mainstay of Italian-American cooking. Rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella cheese, and layers of ziti pasta combine to create a delectable harmony. This dish is sure to please everyone and is a great choice for family gatherings. Every bite is a delightful, cheese-filled joy.

Tasting Notes

The Baked Ziti boasts a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The al dente ziti pasta pairs perfectly with the savory tomato sauce, while the creamy ricotta adds a luscious richness. Topped with melted mozzarella, each bite is a satisfying blend of cheesy goodness and hearty comfort.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (16 oz) ziti pasta
• 1 pound (16 oz) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a hint of heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Kitchen Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Oven-safe baking dish
• Skillet for cooking ground beef
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon
• Colander

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Pasta: Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add chopped onions and garlic, and cook until the onions are soft and translucent.
4. Season and Simmer: Season the beef mixture with dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
5. Layering: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with half of the tomato sauce. In the baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, followed by dollops of ricotta and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat the layers.
6. Top with Cheese: Finish by topping the dish with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

• For an extra layer of flavor, add a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley to the ricotta mixture.
• Use whole milk ricotta for a creamier texture.

Variations

• Try substituting ground beef with Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Experiment with different types of cheeses, such as fontina or provolone.

FAQs