Baked Ziti

Definition:

Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American casserole dish made with ziti pasta, a tomato-based sauce, and a blend of cheeses. It is typically baked in the oven until golden brown and bubbly.

Origin:

The exact origins of baked ziti are unknown, but it is believed to have originated in the Italian-American community in the United States in the early 20th century. It is a popular dish at family gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients:

Ziti pasta

Tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)

Ricotta cheese

Mozzarella cheese

Parmesan cheese

Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook ziti pasta according to package directions.

3. In a large skillet, brown ground beef or Italian sausage (if using). Drain any excess fat.

4. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, tomato sauce, ground beef or sausage (if using), ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

5. Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

7. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Variations:

Meatless
Omit the ground beef or Italian sausage.

Vegetable
Add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the sauce.

Different cheeses
Use a blend of different cheeses, such as provolone, cheddar, or fontina.

Stuffed
Fill the ziti pasta with a mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and herbs before baking.

Baked ziti roll-ups
Roll up the ziti pasta with the filling and bake in a single layer.

Serving:

Baked ziti is typically served hot as a main course. It can be accompanied by a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Nutritional Value:

Baked ziti is a high-calorie dish, but it also provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and calcium. The nutritional value will vary depending on the ingredients used.

Tips:

Use a high-quality tomato sauce for the best flavor.

Don't overcook the ziti pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

Let the baked ziti stand for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Leftover baked ziti can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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