Baked Ziti Recipe Without Ricotta Cheese: A Creamy & Comforting Italian Classic
Guide or Summary：IngredientsInstructionsRecipe TipsIngredients- 1 pound ziti pasta- 1 pound ground beef (optional)- 1 small onion, finely chopped- 3 cloves……
Guide or Summary：
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. If using ground beef, cook it in a large skillet over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the ground beef and cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, black pepper, dried basil, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine.
7. Simmer the sauce for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
8. In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, grated mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream until well combined.
9. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
10. Layer half of the cooked ziti pasta over the sauce, followed by half of the cheese mixture.
11. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top and sprinkling the remaining cheese mixture over it.
12. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
13. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
14. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Recipe Tips
- For a vegetarian option, you can omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce.
- To add some extra flavor, you can also sprinkle a little red pepper flakes on top before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
This baked ziti recipe without ricotta cheese is a delicious and easy-to-make alternative to traditional baked ziti. It's a creamy and comforting Italian classic that's perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. With its rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that's sure to impress.