Stuffed Ziti Tower
Category: Main Course
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ziti pasta | 500g |
| Cream cheese | 250g |
| Fresh basil | A few leaves |
| Chives | To taste |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP | 200g |
| Pine nuts | 3 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Speck (cured ham) | 100g |
| Whole milk | 500ml |
| All-purpose flour | 50g |
| Butter | 50g |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Ziti:
Begin by cooking the ziti pasta in salted water, following the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
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-
Prepare the Speck:
Cut the speck into thin julienne strips to add a smoky, savory flavor to the dish. -
Trim the Ziti:
Use a pair of scissors to carefully cut each ziti pasta to the same size for a uniform look when assembling the tower. -
Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with finely chopped chives and basil. This herb-infused cream cheese will add a refreshing flavor to the dish. -
Make the Bechamel:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly to create a smooth paste. Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. -
Assemble the Tower:
Take a baking dish and begin assembling the layers of your stuffed ziti tower. First, spoon two tablespoons of the speck-infused bechamel sauce into the bottom of the dish. Then, arrange the stuffed ziti, placing them side by side. -
Layering the Ingredients:
Over the first layer of ziti, add another layer of bechamel sauce and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Add a few pine nuts for crunch and flavor. -
Repeat the Process:
Continue layering the stuffed ziti in alternating directions, building the tower higher with each layer. Be sure to repeat the bechamel sauce, Parmigiano Reggiano, and pine nuts in between the layers. -
Final Touch:
Finish the tower by covering the top with more grated Parmigiano Reggiano for a golden, crispy finish once baked. -
Bake the Tower:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the stuffed ziti tower is golden and bubbling. -
Serve:
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before slicing into individual servings. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of the creamy, cheesy, and savory stuffed ziti tower.
This recipe for Stuffed Ziti Tower is a deliciously elevated take on the classic pasta dish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, the layers of creamy cheese, savory speck, and fragrant basil combine to create a truly indulgent meal. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or treat yourself to something indulgent, this dish is sure to satisfy!
