Easy Baked Ziti Pasta Recipe
Introduction
Easy Baked Ziti Pasta Recipe is a cornerstone of Italian-American cuisine, beloved for its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. Its origins trace back to Southern Italy, but it gained immense popularity in the United States, becoming a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and casual dinners. The dishs appeal lies in its simple ingredients, satisfying texture, and the ability to be customized to individual preferences.
Ingredients
The key ingredients for Easy Baked Ziti Pasta Recipe include: 1 pound of ziti pasta, 1 pound of ground meat (beef, sausage, or a combination), 1 large onion (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce, 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, salt and pepper to taste, 15 ounces ricotta cheese, 1 egg, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground meat with vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or eggplant. You can also use different types of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni, as a replacement for ziti.
Preparation Steps
Begin by preparing the meat sauce. In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Drain any excess grease. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together. Meanwhile, cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until smooth.
Cooking Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the meat sauce. Gently fold in the ricotta cheese mixture, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Pour the remaining pasta mixture over the mozzarella cheese. Top with the remaining one cup of mozzarella cheese. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly browned. Let the Easy Baked Ziti Pasta Recipe rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Easy Baked Ziti Pasta Recipe is often served as a main course. It pairs well with a simple green salad and garlic bread. Traditional accompaniments include Italian breadsticks or a Caesar salad. Garnishing with fresh basil leaves adds a pop of color and freshness. For a complete meal, consider serving it with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. Plating the Easy Baked Ziti Pasta Recipe by scooping generous portions onto individual plates and topping with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese enhances the dining experience.
Tips and Common Mistakes
To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, cook it al dente. Overcooking the pasta will result in a soft and less desirable texture in the finished dish. Avoid using pre-shredded mozzarella cheese, as it often contains cellulose that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly shredded mozzarella cheese melts more evenly and creates a better cheesy topping. Do not skip the resting period after baking; this allows the Easy Baked Ziti Pasta Recipe to set, making it easier to slice and serve. A common mistake is not seasoning the ricotta cheese mixture adequately. Adding salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese to the ricotta mixture enhances its flavor and prevents it from being bland. For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage in the meat sauce.
Explore More Cooking Guides
Mastering the Easy Baked Ziti Pasta Recipe unlocks a world of comforting, customizable flavors, bringing the warmth of Italian-American tradition to any table. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a perfect choice for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. Experiment with different cheeses, meats, or vegetables to create your own signature version. Start cooking your Easy Baked Ziti Pasta Recipe today and discover more delicious and accessible cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com, where your culinary adventure awaits!
