Cheesy Baked Ziti Pasta Recipe
Description:
Cheesy Baked Ziti Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that combines roasted mushrooms, sweet corn, and a rich red sauce with a cheesy topping. Ziti, a type of pasta that closely resembles penne, is the perfect base for this hearty meal. The addition of roasted vegetables enhances its flavor, making it a great vegetarian option. The creamy mozzarella cheese, along with aromatic herbs like basil and rosemary, creates a deliciously satisfying meal.
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ziti Pasta | 2 cups |
| Olive Oil (for roasting veggies) | 2 teaspoons |
| Button Mushrooms | 12 pieces |
| Sweet Corn | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Olive Oil (for pasta sauce) | 2 tablespoons |
| Basil Leaves | 6 leaves |
| Garlic Cloves | 6 cloves, finely chopped |
| Onion | 1 medium, finely chopped |
| Red Chilli Flakes | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Rosemary Sprig | 1 sprig |
| Tomato Puree | 1/2 cup |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 1 cup, grated |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
40 minutes
Instructions:
Step 1: Cooking the Pasta
To begin, bring a saucepan of water to a boil. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and the ziti pasta. Cook the pasta for about 12 to 15 minutes or until al dente. Be careful not to overcook it; the pasta should still have a slight bite. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drizzle a little olive oil over it and toss to prevent the pasta from sticking. Set it aside for later.
Step 2: Roasting the Vegetables
In a pan, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil. Add the sliced button mushrooms and cook until they become soft and tender. After that, add the sweet corn and continue cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Preparing the Pasta Sauce
For the pasta sauce, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in another pan. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and soft. Add the tomato puree, red chili flakes, salt, sugar, and basil leaves. Toss in the rosemary sprig and mix everything well. Add about 2 tablespoons of water and allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens and reduces slightly. Stir occasionally.
Step 4: Assembling the Dish
To the sauce, add the cooked ziti pasta along with the roasted mushrooms and corn. Stir everything to combine and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes on low heat. Once well-mixed, turn off the heat and stir in the grated mozzarella cheese until it melts into the pasta.
Step 5: Baking
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the pasta mixture into a large oven-safe dish. Top with an extra layer of mozzarella cheese and sprinkle some dried herbs for added flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve your Cheesy Baked Ziti Pasta with a side of garlic bread and a fresh broccoli salad for a wholesome and satisfying dinner. Perfect for a cozy family meal or a special gathering!
Tips:
- For a spicier kick, feel free to add more red chili flakes.
- You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the dish.
- If you prefer a vegan version, substitute mozzarella cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative.
This recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, with its savory combination of pasta, cheese, and roasted vegetables. Enjoy a classic Italian favorite with a modern twist!
