Brunilda Schiavone Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It is made with pasta, cheese, and a tomato sauce, and can be customized to your liking. This recipe for baked ziti with no meat is a delicious and hearty dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Baked ziti is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of different ingredients. The most common ingredients include pasta, cheese, and a tomato sauce. However, you can also add other ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, or seafood. Baked ziti is typically baked in a casserole dish, but it can also be cooked in a slow cooker or on the stovetop.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Cook ziti pasta according to package directions.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce.
- Stir in the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Here are some tips for making the best baked ziti:
Tips
- Use a good quality pasta. The type of pasta you use will affect the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. The pasta should be cooked al dente, or slightly firm to the bite.
- Use a flavorful tomato sauce. The tomato sauce is the base of the dish, so it is important to use a sauce that has a lot of flavor.
- Add some vegetables. Vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini, can add extra flavor and nutrients to the dish.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to make baked ziti. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find your favorite recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of pasta to use for baked ziti?
The best type of pasta to use for baked ziti is a short, tube-shaped pasta, such as ziti, penne, or rigatoni.
Can I use a different type of cheese in baked ziti?
Yes, you can use any type of cheese that you like in baked ziti. Some popular choices include mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can make baked ziti ahead of time. To do this, assemble the dish and then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to serve, bake the ziti according to the package directions.
How do I store leftover baked ziti?
Leftover baked ziti can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the ziti in a baking dish and bake it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until heated through.
Baked ziti is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
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