Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti
Try this Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti recipe
Try this Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti recipe
- 2 eggs
- 1 pound ground beef
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 teaspoons italian seasoning
- 1 large onion diced
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan
- 1 pound ground italian sausage - if you can't find ground buy links and cut a slice in the casing and take out the ground sausage
- two 14.5-ounce cans tomato sauce
- one 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes with juice
- 1 box ziti noodles
- 1 1/2 pounds mozzarella grated
- 1 15- ounce tub whole-milk ricotta
- i also add brown sugar and wine to taste to the sa
- Carbohydrate 63.7392173485 g
- Cholesterol 797.6914868 mg
- Fat 200.128327833895 g
- Fiber 5.30330013108254 g
- Protein 280.671440651 g
- Saturated Fat 106.5735106273 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (2187g)
- Sodium 7871.89799465006 mg
- Sugar 58.4359172174175 g
- Trans Fat 16.6451255021784 g
- Calories 3211 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and onions and saute until starting to soften, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef and sausage and cook until browned.
- Drain off almost all of the fat, leaving a bit behind for flavor and moisture.
- Add the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes and some salt and pepper.
- Stir, bring to a simmer and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Remove 3 to 4 cups of the cooked sauce to a bowl to cool down.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add some salt.
- Cook the ziti until not quite al dente.
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
- In a bowl, mix 2 cups of the grated mozzarella, the ricotta, Parmesan, parsley, eggs and some salt and pepper.
- Stir together just a couple of times (do not mix completely).
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking and cool it down.
- Pour it into the bowl with the cheese mixture and toss to slightly combine (there should still be large lumps).
- Add the cooled reserved meat sauce and toss to combine.
- Add half the coated pasta to a large casserole dish or lasagna dish.
- Spoon half of the remaining sauce over the top, then top with half the remaining mozzarella.
- Repeat with another layer of the coated pasta and the remaining sauce and mozzarella.
- Bake until bubbling, about 20 minutes.
- Let stand 5-10 minutes and serve.
My Favorite Weeknight Comfort Food: Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and satisfying meals can feel like a Herculean task. There are nights when takeout is tempting, but I always try to prioritize a home-cooked meal whenever possible. It’s not just about nutrition; it’s about the family connection, the comforting aroma filling the house, and the simple joy of sharing a meal together. This Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti recipe has become a staple in our house – a perfect blend of ease, flavor, and satisfaction that never disappoints.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. I often adapt it based on what’s in my pantry and fridge. Sometimes I add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or I’ll swap out the Italian sausage for ground chicken or turkey to make it a little leaner. The beauty of baked ziti lies in its ability to accommodate various preferences and dietary needs. The rich tomato sauce, the creamy ricotta, the melty mozzarella – it’s a symphony of flavors that always seems to hit the spot. I find the process wonderfully therapeutic. The act of layering the pasta, sauce, and cheese is oddly calming; a chance to slow down and focus on something other than the endless to-do list. It’s a small act of self-care, a way to inject a bit of warmth and love into my otherwise chaotic schedule.
The aroma alone is enough to make everyone in the house happy. The smell of simmering tomato sauce, baking cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a sense of comfort and anticipation. Dinnertime is transformed from a mere obligation into a moment of togetherness, a chance to reconnect with my family after a long day. And the best part? Leftovers are just as good, if not better, the next day! This is one dish that truly improves with age. This isn't just a recipe; it’s a moment of peace, a taste of home, and a reminder to appreciate the simple pleasures of life. It's not just food; it's a story, a tradition we're building one delicious bite at a time.
Beyond the family aspect, this recipe is a lifesaver for entertaining. It's a crowd-pleaser that always receives rave reviews. It's impressive enough to serve at a dinner party, yet easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. The preparation time is manageable, and the baking time allows for multitasking; I often use this time to catch up on emails or tidy up the kitchen. I've even been known to prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the dish the day before, making it a truly effortless meal for guests.
This recipe isn't just about the delicious food; it’s about creating memories. I remember making this for my children's first birthdays. They are grown now, and I still make it for holidays and gatherings. It brings back such fond memories. This dish is easy enough for beginners and comforting enough for experienced cooks. I recommend trying this recipe. You won't be disappointed.
The Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti isn't merely a dish; it’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. It's a symbol of home, comfort, and the love that goes into creating something delicious to share with those we cherish. It's more than just dinner; it’s a culinary hug. The taste is so unique and satisfying. Everyone is always asking for more.
So, if you're looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing recipe that is also incredibly easy to make, look no further than the Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti. It's a recipe that will quickly become a family favorite, a comforting friend on busy weeknights, and a showstopper at your next gathering. Trust me, you’ll be making this one again and again.
