Introduction
Baked Ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that combines pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese into a comforting meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. This dish is easy to prepare and can be customized with various meats, vegetables, or cheeses, making it a family favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a potluck, or just for a cozy dinner at home, Baked Ziti is sure to please everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Ziti pasta – 1 pound
– Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
– Onion, chopped – 1 medium
– Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
– Ground beef or Italian sausage – 1 pound
– Marinara sauce – 4 cups
– Ricotta cheese – 15 ounces
– Egg – 1 large
– Mozzarella cheese, shredded – 2 cups
– Parmesan cheese, grated – 1 cup
– Fresh basil, chopped – ¼ cup
– Salt and pepper – to taste
Prep Time
The preparation time for Baked Ziti is approximately 20 minutes. This includes cooking the pasta, sautéing the vegetables, and mixing together the cheese filling.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time is around 30 minutes as the assembled dish bakes in the oven. The total time for preparing and baking the Baked Ziti is about 50 minutes. This recipe yields about 8 servings, making it ideal for a group or for enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, boil water and add a generous pinch of salt. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Then, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add Ground Meat
Incorporate ground meat into the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Season the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes.
Combine Sauce and Pasta
In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with half of the meat sauce. Stir well to combine.
Layer the Ziti
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Then, add half of the pasta mixture followed by half of the ricotta cheese dollops. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top.
Add Remaining Layers
Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake the Ziti
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Substitutions
Feel free to substitute ground beef or turkey with plant-based meat or omit meat entirely for a vegetarian version.
Cheese Variations
You can use different cheese types like provolone or gouda for added flavor.
Storage
Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for longer storage.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, cover the dish with foil and heat in the oven until warmed through, or microwave individual servings.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Cooking ziti or any pasta in boiling water is essential for al dente texture. Ensure the water is salted to enhance the flavor of the noodles.
Layering Ingredients
For baked ziti, layer the pasta, sauce, and cheese in a baking dish to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Baking
Baking the assembled dish at the right temperature allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese to achieve a delightful golden-brown crust.
Broiling
Using the broiler at the end of the baking process can help achieve a bubbly and crispy cheese topping, enhancing the overall presentation and taste.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta for baked ziti?
Yes, you can substitute ziti with other short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni.
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the baked ziti ahead of time and refrigerate it, baking it just before serving.
Is baked ziti freeze-friendly?
Yes, baked ziti can be frozen. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw before baking.
What cheese works best for baked ziti?
A combination of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses is traditional for baked ziti, providing great flavor and texture.
How do I know when my baked ziti is done?
Baked ziti is done when it is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly, typically after about 25 to 30 minutes in the oven.
Conclusion
Baked ziti is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together pasta, cheese, and rich tomato sauce in a delightful way. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. The creamy texture and flavor make it a favorite among families and friends alike, and its versatility allows for endless variations to suit different tastes.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Baked Ziti
Incorporate your favorite vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for a nutritious twist on this classic dish.
Meat Lover’s Baked Ziti
Add ground beef, sausage, or pepperoni to create a hearty, protein-packed version that satisfies the meat lovers among us.
Pesto Baked Ziti
Swap out traditional tomato sauce for pesto, adding a fresh and herby flavor that brightens up the dish.
Buffalo Chicken Baked Ziti
Mix in cooked, shredded buffalo chicken for a spicy and tangy alternative that adds a kick to the classic recipe.
Four Cheese Baked Ziti
Use a combination of mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and Gorgonzola for a cheesy indulgence that is rich and decadent.
Seafood Baked Ziti
Incorporate shrimp or crab for a seafood version that brings a unique flavor profile to the baked ziti experience.
