Craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious pasta bake? Look no further! This Ziti al Forno recipe is your answer. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or even a cozy night in. Forget complicated recipes; this one is surprisingly easy to make, delivering restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. This recipe is all about homemade cooking at its finest, showcasing the beauty of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. Get ready to experience the joy of this classic Italian bake!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Create the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. This step is key to a delicious sauce – low and slow is the way to go!
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Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, and chopped parsley. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
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Assemble the Ziti Al Forno: In a large bowl, gently combine the cooked ziti pasta and the tomato sauce. Add about half of the ricotta mixture and stir to coat the pasta evenly.
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Bake to Perfection: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the remaining ricotta mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle generously with the mozzarella cheese.
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Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses in the filling.
- Add some protein: Ground meat (Italian sausage or beef) browned with the onions and garlic adds a hearty dimension.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Vegetarian option: Omit the meat and add some sauteed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the ziti al forno ahead of time and bake it just before serving. You can even partially bake it the day before and finish baking it the next day.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal, but the exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and calcium. For precise nutritional data, use a nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe.
This Ziti al Forno is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. It’s a hearty, healthy meal, and the best part? It's unbelievably easy to make. Enjoy this delicious and easy recipe – it's sure to become a new family favorite!