Baked Ziti
Directions
- 1Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and mix with a little bit of oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- 2In a pan over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add in the onions and garlic. Cook until softened.
- 3Mix in sugar, seasonings (oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper) and tomato paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- 4Stir in crushed tomatoes and herbs. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer sauce for 12-15 minutes. Mix in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- 5In a bowl, add and mix together all of the ricotta mixture ingredients.
- 6Mix together the ziti, ricotta mixture and 3 large spoons (about 1 cup) of the meat sauce.
- 7Lightly grease a 9x9 baking pan and spoon in a thin layer of the sauce. Add half of the ziti mixture and spread out. Top with a layer of sauce and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella. Repeat layering with remaining ziti mixture, sauce and cheese.
- 8Cover pan with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. For crisp, golden brown cheese top, broil for 3-5 minutes.
- 9Sprinkle baked ziti with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 0.5 cup onions
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1.5 tbsp tomato paste
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 0.25 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp fresh basil
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 salt and pepper
- 8 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
- 0.5 beaten egg
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 cup mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 pound ziti pasta
- 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese
Equipment
large potfrying panwooden spoonmixing bowl9x9 baking panaluminum foil
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