Baked Ziti: A Flavorful Pasta Bake

Indulge in Comfort with Baked Ziti: A Flavorful Pasta Bake

Dive into a dish that embodies comfort and flavor with Baked Ziti. This classic pasta bake combines tender ziti noodles, savory ground beef, and layers of gooey cheese, all smothered in rich marinara sauce. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a cozy meal for one, Baked Ziti is sure to satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul. Let’s explore how to create this irresistible pasta bake and elevate your culinary repertoire with its deliciousness.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) ziti pasta
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 ounces) of marinara sauce
• 1 cup (240ml) ricotta cheese
• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess grease.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, browned ground beef mixture, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Layer and Bake:
   • Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
   • Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Let the Baked Ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
   • Garnish with additional chopped basil, if desired, and serve hot.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground beef for a vegetarian version of Baked Ziti. You can add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the pasta mixture for a spicy kick.
• Customize the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as fontina, provolone, or asiago to create your own unique flavor profile.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Keto Option: Substitute the ziti pasta with cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles to reduce the carb content. Replace the marinara sauce with a low-carb tomato sauce and use full-fat ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese. Skip the breadcrumbs and adjust the portion sizes to fit your macros.
• Low-Carb Variation: Use a low-carb pasta alternative such as shirataki noodles or konjac pasta. Opt for a sugar-free marinara sauce and choose lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Use a moderate amount of part-skim ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese to keep the carb count low.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I prepare Baked Ziti in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the Baked Ziti ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the assembled dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.

Q: Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe? A: Absolutely! While ziti pasta is traditional for this dish, you can use any short pasta shape such as penne, rigatoni, or rotini.

Q: Can I make Baked Ziti without ricotta cheese? A: Yes, you can omit the ricotta cheese if you prefer. You can also substitute it with cottage cheese or additional shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.

In conclusion, Baked Ziti is a timeless comfort food classic that never fails to delight with its hearty flavors and satisfying textures. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients and easy preparation, this pasta bake is a versatile dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or get creative with your own variations, Baked Ziti is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to the cozy deliciousness of Baked Ziti tonight!