Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that is loved by many for its comforting flavors and cheesy goodness. If you’re looking for an easy and delicious baked ziti recipe, look no further than “The Chew” baked ziti recipe. Created by the talented chefs on the popular daytime talk show, “The Chew,” this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
To make “The Chew” baked ziti, you will need the following ingredients: 1 pound of ziti pasta, 1 pound of ground beef, 1 onion (chopped), 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 jar of marinara sauce, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil, and salt and pepper to taste.
Start by cooking the ziti pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
Next, add the marinara sauce to the skillet and let it simmer for a few minutes. In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top it with the cheese mixture. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Now, let’s answer some frequently asked questions about “The Chew” baked ziti recipe:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any short pasta shape you prefer.
2. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef.
3. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works just fine.
4. Can I freeze the baked ziti?
Yes, you can freeze the baked ziti for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it before reheating.
5. Can I use different cheeses?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, but keep in mind that the combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan gives this dish its classic flavor.
6. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to make it even more nutritious.
7. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the ground beef and add more vegetables or a meat substitute of your choice.
8. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the baked ziti ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it.
9. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, dried basil can be used as a substitute, but fresh basil adds a more vibrant flavor.
10. Can I make this recipe spicy?
If you like some heat, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
11. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time accordingly.
“The Chew” baked ziti recipe is a crowd-pleasing dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving some comfort food, this recipe is a winner. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen.