Ziti Casserole Delight: A Comforting Italian Dish
Indulge in the warmth and richness of Ziti Casserole Delight, an inviting Italian dish that seamlessly combines hearty flavors with comforting textures. This delightful casserole, crafted from a basic ziti recipe that has been thoughtfully enhanced with additional ingredients, is perfect for any meal. The balance of seasoned ground beef, tender ziti pasta, and a medley of creamy and cheesy layers creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also an excellent option for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Whether you bake it in a conventional oven or opt for a toaster oven during warmer months, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Recipe Name | Ziti Casserole Delight |
| Description | An easy Italian comfort food made with ziti pasta and a blend of flavorful ingredients. Perfect for any occasion! |
| Recipe Category | Meat |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Servings | 6-8 servings (approximately) |
| Rating | 4.0 out of 5 (2 reviews) |
Ingredients
The following ingredients combine to create the sumptuous flavors and comforting textures of this casserole. Ensure that you have everything ready before you start cooking, as the process is quick and straightforward.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ziti pasta | 8 ounces |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Mushrooms (drained) | 1 can (14.5 ounces) |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 1/3 cup |
| Half-and-half cream | 1/3 cup |
| Red wine | 2 tablespoons |
| Oregano (dried) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mozzarella cheese (shredded) | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information
The following nutritional information can help you understand the caloric and nutrient breakdown of each serving of Ziti Casserole Delight.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 831.4 kcal |
| Total Fat | 41.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 20 g |
| Cholesterol | 141.6 mg |
| Sodium | 1591.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 65.7 g |
| Fiber | 3.3 g |
| Sugar | 14.9 g |
| Protein | 43.2 g |
Instructions
Preparing Ziti Casserole Delight is a simple process that yields a delectable result. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly.
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preparing your oven. Preheat it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This step is crucial for ensuring that the casserole cooks evenly and achieves a beautiful golden brown on top.
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Cook the Ziti Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions. To avoid overcooking, reduce the cooking time by 5 minutes, as the pasta will continue to cook during the baking process.
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Sauté the Aromatics: While the pasta is cooking, take a 10-12 inch skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and ground beef to the skillet. Sauté until the beef is browned and the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
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Incorporate Garlic: Once the beef and onion mixture is ready, add the minced garlic. Continue to cook on low heat for an additional 3 minutes to allow the garlic to release its aromatic flavors into the mixture.
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Drain the Pasta: Once the ziti is cooked, drain it in a colander and let it sit while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
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Combine the Mixtures: In the skillet with the beef mixture, add the drained mushrooms, sour cream, grated parmesan cheese, half-and-half, spaghetti sauce, red wine, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients and create a creamy, flavorful sauce.
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Mix in the Ziti: Gently fold the drained ziti into the beef mixture, ensuring that all the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. This step is crucial for ensuring each bite is filled with flavor.
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Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the ziti and beef mixture into an ungreased 2-1/2 quart casserole dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
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Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the casserole. This cheese will melt and create a deliciously gooey topping.
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Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time; it is ready when the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden brown on top.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for easier serving. Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy the comfort of this delicious Ziti Casserole Delight.
Tips for Perfecting Your Casserole
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef. This will elevate the flavors in your casserole significantly.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more sour cream or half-and-half.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as fontina or cheddar, to vary the flavor profile of the dish.
- Toaster Oven Adjustment: If using a toaster oven, remember to reduce the baking time by 10 minutes to prevent the casserole from becoming too dry.
This Ziti Casserole Delight is not just a meal; it is a heartfelt creation that brings people together around the dining table. Whether you are enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it to guests, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds. With its perfect balance of flavors and comforting qualities, it’s bound to become a cherished recipe in your household. Enjoy the delightful journey of flavors, and let the love for home-cooked meals shine through!
