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Extra Cheesy Baked Ziti
Created by: Howcan Team
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, meat sauce, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, and the ricotta cheese. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your extra cheesy baked ziti!
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that has become a staple in many households and restaurants. This hearty and comforting pasta dish is made with ziti noodles, marinara sauce, and a generous amount of cheese, typically mozzarella and ricotta. The history of baked ziti can be traced back to Italian immigrants who settled in the United States and adapted their traditional pasta dishes to incorporate local ingredients. One of the key elements of a delicious baked ziti is the cheese. The extra cheese adds a rich and gooey texture to the dish, making it even more indulgent and satisfying. Chefs and home cooks alike often experiment with different types of cheese to create their own unique twist on this classic recipe. In terms of regional variations, baked ziti is popular throughout the United States, especially in Italian-American communities. However, it is particularly beloved in the Northeast, where Italian-American cuisine has a strong presence. Restaurants in cities like New York and Boston often feature baked ziti on their menus, each with their own special blend of cheeses and seasonings. When it comes to making the best version of baked ziti at home, using high-quality cheeses is essential. Freshly grated mozzarella and creamy ricotta can take this dish to the next level. Additionally, some chefs swear by adding a layer of Parmesan cheese on top for a crispy, golden crust. For those looking to switch things up, a famous alternative method for making baked ziti involves adding a layer of sliced pepperoni or Italian sausage for a meaty twist. This adds a savory depth to the dish and pairs perfectly with the extra cheese for a truly indulgent meal. Today, the best versions of baked ziti can be found in authentic Italian-American restaurants that take pride in their traditional recipes and use the finest cheeses and ingredients. Whether it's a family-owned trattoria in Little Italy or a cozy neighborhood eatery, the key to a memorable baked ziti experience lies in the perfect balance of ziti, marinara, and, of course, extra cheese.
60 min
8
480 calories
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