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Let me share my go-to comfort food recipe that never fails to impress. This classic baked ziti combines al dente pasta, savory ground beef, and gooey cheese in a harmonious blend of flavors. Perfected over countless family dinners, my version boasts a rich tomato sauce infused with aromatic herbs. Whether you're feeding a crowd or craving leftovers, this hearty dish hits all the right notes. Get ready for a pasta experience that'll have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients for Classic Baked Ziti
- Ziti pasta: Pasta provides the base for the dish, absorbing flavors and creating a hearty, comforting texture in each bite.
- Ground beef: Ground beef adds savory richness and protein, making the dish satisfying and flavorful.
- Onion: Onion adds depth and sweetness to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the baked ziti.
- Garlic: Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavor, complementing the other ingredients and adding a delicious complexity.
- Marinara sauce: Marinara sauce serves as the tomato-based foundation, providing a robust and tangy flavor to the baked ziti.
- Dried oregano: Dried oregano contributes earthy and herbaceous notes, enhancing the Italian flavors of the baked ziti.
- Dried basil: Dried basil adds a fresh and slightly sweet flavor, elevating the overall taste of the baked ziti.
- Mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy topping that adds richness and indulgence to the dish.
- Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese brings a salty and nutty flavor, enhancing the cheesiness and depth of the baked ziti.
- Fresh parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, brightening up the dish and providing a vibrant finishing touch.
Essential Tools for Making Baked Ziti at Home
- Large skillet: To brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic for the meat sauce.
- Baking dish: To assemble and bake the ziti pasta with the meat sauce and cheese for a complete dish.
Classic Baked Ziti Recipe
This Classic Baked Ziti Recipe is a comforting and delicious Italian-American dish that's perfect for family dinners. It's made with ziti pasta, ground beef, marinara sauce, and lots of cheese.
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Equipment
- Large skillet
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Baking Dish
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- to taste Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the meat sauce. Mix well.
- Transfer half of the ziti mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Repeat with the remaining ziti mixture and cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition value:
Calories: 580kcalCarbohydrates: 57gProtein: 33gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 980mgPotassium: 480mgFiber: 4gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 4mg
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Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Can You Make Baked Ziti Ahead of Time?
Make Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the baked ziti as directed but do not bake.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
Freezing Instructions
- Assemble the ziti in a freezer-safe dish but do not bake.
- Wrap the dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
One interesting fact about this classic baked ziti recipe - home pressure cooking is that you can add a layer of ricotta cheese mixed with an egg and some fresh herbs between the ziti and the cheese topping for an extra creamy and flavorful twist!
Common Questions About This Baked Ziti Recipe
FAQ:
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ziti with penne, rigatoni, or any other similar pasta shape.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef or replace it with plant-based meat alternatives or more vegetables.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the baked ziti ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to enjoy.
How long does this baked ziti last in the fridge?
This baked ziti can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this baked ziti. Just make sure to wrap it well or store it in a freezer-safe container.
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