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Recipe for “Classic Homemade Baked Ziti”
Introduction:
Baked Ziti is a beloved comfort food that has its roots in Italian-American kitchens. This dish, a cousin to lasagna, is made with ziti pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It has become a favorite in many homes for family dinners, celebrations, and even cozy weeknight meals. This version, passed down through generations, is made with love and attention to detail, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor and heartwarming nostalgia.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish represents the essence of homemade warmth and hospitality, often enjoyed on cold evenings with a good glass of wine and laughter around the table.
Ingredients:
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- For the Pasta:
- 1 lb ziti pasta (or penne, if preferred)
- Salt for boiling water
- For the Cheese Layer:
- 16 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg (to bind the ricotta)
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped basil (optional for extra flavor)
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for the top layer)
Instructions:
- Make the Sauce:
- Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large saucepan. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar (if using), basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and develop a rich, tangy flavor. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside. It’s okay if it cools slightly; just don’t overcook it as it will bake further in the oven.
- Prepare the Cheese Layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Stir until smooth. If you’d like to add fresh basil for a more aromatic flavor, now is the time.
- Assemble the Baked Ziti:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with about 2 cups of the tomato sauce and half of the cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with a layer of the remaining cheese mixture and another layer of tomato sauce. Repeat the process, layering the pasta, cheese, and sauce.
- Finish with a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella on top.
- Bake the Ziti:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
History and Formation:
Baked Ziti, or “Ziti al Forno,” is a staple of Italian-American cuisine, often appearing at gatherings, holidays, and family reunions. The origins of the dish are tied to Southern Italy, where baked pasta dishes are a tradition. However, when Italians emigrated to America, they adapted their recipes to local ingredients, resulting in a more cheese-heavy, tomato-rich dish suited to American tastes.
The name “ziti” comes from the Italian word “zito,” meaning “bride,” symbolizing the dish’s festive and celebratory nature. Traditionally, ziti is served during weddings and family celebrations, symbolizing abundance and unity. The rich tomato sauce, combined with layers of melted cheese, represents warmth and hospitality, qualities central to Italian culture.
Conclusion:
Homemade Baked Ziti is more than just a meal—it’s a way to bring people together, share stories, and create lasting memories. This recipe, passed down from a 70-year-old master, carries with it years of tradition, love, and understanding of how the simplest ingredients can create something extraordinary. By preparing this dish, you are not only honoring the past but creating your own culinary legacy for the future.
Lovers of Baked Ziti:
This dish is beloved by so many. It’s a go-to for families, college students, busy professionals, and anyone who craves comfort food. From young children to older generations, the savory flavors and heartwarming textures make Baked Ziti universally adored.
Whether you’re sharing it with friends on a weekend night or enjoying it alone with a good book, Baked Ziti is sure to win over the hearts of everyone at the table. It’s a dish made for love, passed down through generations, and always savored with a smile.
Methods with Love:
As you prepare this recipe, take your time. Enjoy the process of sautéing the onions and garlic, allowing the sauce to simmer and develop depth. The joy is in the small moments, from tasting the sauce to layering the cheese. And when you finally serve it, share it with a full heart—this dish is as much about the experience as it is about the food itself.
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