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Enhanced Onion and Cheese Baked Ziti
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Enhanced Onion and Cheese Baked Ziti! This classic Italian-American dish features layers of perfectly cooked ziti pasta, creamy ricotta, and a medley of melted cheeses, all enveloped in a savory tomato sauce infused with aromatic garlic and sweet onions. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this baked ziti is not just a meal; it’s a slice of comfort that warms the heart. Historically, baked ziti is a staple in Italian-American cuisine, often served at festive occasions, celebrating the joy of sharing food with loved ones.
Ingredients
- Salt
- to taste
- Black pepper
- to taste
- Fresh basil
- 1/4 cup, chopped (for garnish)
- Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup, grated
- Mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups, shredded
- Ricotta cheese
- 2 cups
- Tomato sauce
- 4 cups
- Olive oil
- 2 tablespoons
- Garlic
- 4 cloves, minced
- Onion
- 1 large, diced
- Ziti pasta
- 1 pound
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce mixture on the bottom. Add a layer of cooked ziti pasta over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta, followed by another layer of the tomato sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, and sauce.
- Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.
Tips
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- You can substitute whole wheat ziti for a healthier option.
- Try adding cooked ground beef or sausage for a meaty variation.
Dietary Information
Servings: 8 Dish Type: Main Course Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 40 minutes Calories: 450 Fat: 20g Carbs: 45g Protein: 25g Sodium: 600mg Sugar: 5g
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