Welcome back, fellow food lovers! Today, we’re taking a culinary journey to the heart of Italy with Taylor Street Baked Ziti, a timeless favorite. This recipe, inspired by the colorful streets of Italy, encapsulates the spirit of comfort and pleasure in every bite. The Taylor Street Baked Ziti dish is perfect for family gatherings or a private meal and is sure to become a kitchen favorite.
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INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
Cook the Ziti:
-
Boil the ziti pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente. Set aside after draining.
Prepare the Sauce:
-
Cook the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up into crumbles. Cook until the onions are transparent, then add the minced garlic.
Season the Sauce:
-
Season with dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste after adding the smashed tomatoes. Allow the sauce to simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Combine with Pasta:
-
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and combine with the pasta. Mix the cooked ziti with the sauce in a large mixing basin until the pasta is evenly coated.
Layer the Goodness:
-
Spread half of the ziti mixture in a baking dish. Distribute the ricotta cheese equally over the layer, then top with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat with the rest of the ziti mixture and cheeses.
Bake to Perfection:
-
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes in a preheated oven. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and brown.
Garnish and serve:
-
Remove the baked ziti from the oven and set aside for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Scoop big quantities onto plates and enjoy Taylor Street Baked Ziti’s rich flavors!
Taylor Street Baked Ziti
Our Taylor Street Baked Ziti recipe is a soulful symphony of flavours." Immerse yourself in the richness of Italian cuisine as pasta, luscious sausage, and layers of cheese come together to create a feast beyond taste, evoking comfort and gastronomic ecstasy.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook the Ziti:
- Boil the ziti pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente. Set aside after draining.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Cook the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up into crumbles. Cook until the onions are transparent, then add the minced garlic.
Season the Sauce:
- Season with dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste after adding the smashed tomatoes. Allow the sauce to simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Combine with Pasta:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and combine with the pasta. Mix the cooked ziti with the sauce in a large mixing basin until the pasta is evenly coated.
Layer the Goodness:
- Spread half of the ziti mixture in a baking dish. Distribute the ricotta cheese equally over the layer, then top with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat with the rest of the ziti mixture and cheeses.
Bake to Perfection:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes in a preheated oven. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and brown.
Garnish and serve:
- Remove the baked ziti from the oven and set aside for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Scoop big quantities onto plates and enjoy Taylor Street Baked Ziti's rich flavors!
Video
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Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What makes Taylor Street Baked Ziti special?
A: Taylor Street Baked Ziti is distinguished by its robust blend of ziti pasta, savory Italian sausage, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a hearty dish that encapsulates the spirit of Italian food, and it’s a family favorite.
Q: Can I substitute the Italian sausage with something else?
A: Without a doubt! If you prefer a different protein or are vegetarian, feel free to substitute ground beef, turkey, or a plant-based alternative for the Italian sausage. Seasonings should be adjusted to achieve the desired flavor.
Q: Can I prepare Taylor Street Baked Ziti in advance?
A: You certainly can! Cover and chill the dish until it is ready to bake. When ready to serve, bake according to package directions. It’s an excellent choice for pre-planning meals or entertaining visitors.
Q: Is it possible to freeze Taylor Street Baked Ziti?
A: Of course! Taylor Street Baked Ziti keeps well in the freezer. Cover securely with plastic wrap and foil after constructing but before baking. When you’re ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator and bake according to package directions.
Q: Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
A: Without a doubt! While ziti is the classic pasta shape, you can try penne, rigatoni, or any other pasta shape you like. The goal is to select a pasta that will absorb the sauce properly.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate any leftover Taylor Street Baked Ziti in an airtight container. For a quick and delicious meal, reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q: What can I serve alongside Taylor Street Baked Ziti?
A: Serve this dish with a fresh green salad and garlic toast. It’s also tasty on its own, but feel free to experiment with your favorite side dishes.
Q: Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the recipe?
A: Without a doubt! The red pepper flakes add some spiciness. Depending on your spice preferences, adjust the amount. You can always start with less and add more as needed.
Q: How can I make Taylor Street Baked Ziti more kid-friendly?
A: To make it more kid-friendly, use mild Italian sausage, reduce or eliminate the red pepper flakes, and let the kids help with the assembly.
Nutrition Fact –
Nutritional Estimate per Serving (assuming 8 servings):
Calories: Approximately 500-600 kcal
Protein: Around 25-30g
Carbohydrates: Roughly 40-50g
Dietary Fiber: Approximately 3-5g
Sugars: Around 5-8g
Fat: Roughly 25-30g
Saturated Fat: Approximately 12-15g
Cholesterol: Around 70-90mg
Sodium: Approximately 800-1000mg
