Let me introduce you to a stunner, a knockout dish, the Classic Baked Ziti Recipe. You’re probably already salivating. This Italian classic loaded with heart-warming, stomach-filling goodness is perfect for everything, from pot-lucks to family dinners. Picture pasta bathed in tomatoes, dribbled with cheese, and oven-baked. What’s not to love? You see, the best thing about the Classic Baked Ziti is its flexibility. With a few tweaks and some creativity, you can turn it into your masterpiece!
It’s a recipe that heaps on the comfort, and surely gets a gold-star rating at dinner tables. Preparations aren’t tough. It���s a painless, trouble-free recipe suitable even for the busiest of days. Making it is a joy in itself, serving it is a delight and eating it – now that’s a party! Plus, here’s a winning attribute – it tastes even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Yield: 3-6 servings
Don’t hang about, let’s get on to how you can create this marvel right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need
- 1 lb ziti
- 1 pound ground beef or sausage
- 1 jar (26 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1.5 cups ricotta cheese
Equipment:
The tomato sauce adds flavor and moistness, the mozzarella melts to create that cheesy blanket while the Parmesan gives an excellent nutty taste. If ground beef isn’t your thing, feel free to substitute it with nutritious options such as tofu or mushrooms.
How To Make Classic Baked Ziti
- Preheat your oven to 375��F.
- Cook your pasta in the large pot full of boiling salted water. Be careful not to overcook it; undercooking it slightly is perfect.
- In another pan, cook your chosen meat until brown. Once done, add in the tomato sauce.
- Combine the pasta, sauce, and all three cheeses in a large bowl. Mix them well.
- Transfer this concoction into your baking dish and sprinkle on some extra cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden, brown, and delicious.
Tips For The Best Results
- Undercook your pasta a little. It’ll cook further in the oven and absorb some sauce.
- Add some fresh basil or parsley for added flavors.
Storage Tips
- This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- You can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Yes, you can. Most pasta shapes that have nooks and crannies work well.
Q: Can I add veggies to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives are good choices.
Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef?
A: Sure thing. Chicken works well in this recipe.
Q: Can I make this dish without meat?
A: Yes, you can. Just add more veggies.
Q: Can I skip the cheese?
A: I wouldn’t recommend that. Cheese is a key player in this dish.
Nutritional Facts of Classic Baked Ziti
Each serving of this dish contains 243 calories, 12g of protein, 19g of carbohydrates, 4g of fiber, and 8g of fat.
The Classic Baked Ziti is a recipe that definitely pays dividends. You can’t go wrong with this hearty crowd-pleaser. Remember, a good wedge of garlic bread and a salad on the side takes this meal to the next level. So go ahead, put on that apron and whip up some comfort food magic!
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