JoEllen's Baked Ziti
Try this JoEllen's Baked Ziti recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this JoEllen's Baked Ziti recipe, or contribute your own.
- salt and pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 5 garlic cloves minced
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- 1 pound whole milk cottage cheese room temperature
- 1 pound of ziti pasta or other pasta in similar shape
- 1- 28 oz can tomato sauce
- 1- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (i like to use the fire roasted tom
- 1/2 cup fresh basil plus extra for topping
- 8 ounces whole milk mozzarella cut into 1/4-1/2 inch cubes
- Carbohydrate 35.1135171927945 g
- Cholesterol 475.558223199732 mg
- Fat 141.505140426748 g
- Fiber 1.08219998272191 g
- Protein 146.571991544657 g
- Saturated Fat 79.9586655624836 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (1400g)
- Sodium 5733.19047267082 mg
- Sugar 34.0313172100726 g
- Trans Fat 12.8435479448463 g
- Calories 2002 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- This can be baked in 1 9X13 inch pan or two 8x8 inch pans; prepare the pans by spraying them with cooking spray.
- Whisk cottage cheese, eggs, and ½ cup of parmesan together in a bowl.
- In a medium size skillet, add in the 2 tablespoons of oil; once heated add in the garlic to cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful it doesn't brown.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and oregano; cook for about 10 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from the heat, and add in ½ cup basil and the sugar; gently stir to mix.
- Cook the pasta until al dente; you don't want the pasta to be cooked all the way through since it will cook more in the oven.
- Drain the pasta.
- While the pasta drains, in the same pot, add in the heavy cream over medium/low heat, until it is warm.
- Turn the heat off and add in the pasta, cottage cheese mixture, about half of the tomato sauce, and half of the mozzarella.
- Stir until everything is evenly combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pans.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the top.
- Top it off with the rest of the mozzarella and the other ½ cup of parmesan cheese.
- If you are making this ahead of time, this is when you would refrigerate it.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, and bake for another 30 minutes, or until bubbly and starting to brown.
- Allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley to serve.
JoEllen's Baked Ziti: A Comfort Food Classic
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal for my family can often feel like a Herculean task. But sometimes, the simplest recipes turn out to be the most rewarding. That's where JoEllen's Baked Ziti comes in. This dish is not just a comforting classic; it's also incredibly versatile and easy to adapt to your preferences and dietary needs. The rich, cheesy sauce perfectly coats the tender ziti, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. It's the kind of meal that brings the whole family together, offering a warm hug on a chilly evening or a celebratory feast on a special occasion.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, cheeses, or even add your own favorite vegetables to make it your own. For example, adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms can add a delightful earthy touch, while roasted red peppers provide a sweet and smoky counterpoint to the rich tomato sauce. If you are watching your calorie intake, opting for low-fat cottage cheese and mozzarella can reduce the overall fat content without sacrificing flavor. The possibilities are endless! I often adjust this recipe depending on what's available in my pantry and my family’s current cravings. Sometimes, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, other times I keep it simple and classic.
This recipe also perfectly embodies the spirit of efficient cooking. I can usually get most of the prep work done while my kids are occupied with their homework or evening activities. The assembly is straightforward, and the baking time allows me to catch up on emails, finish some household chores or simply relax and unwind with a cup of tea. It's the kind of meal that feels both indulgent and achievable in the everyday hustle and bustle of life. The leftover ziti is also amazing reheated for lunch the next day, making it a perfect time-saver for busy weekdays. It’s a true testament to the fact that delicious food doesn't always have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Beyond the convenience and adaptability, what truly sets JoEllen's Baked Ziti apart is the warmth and comfort it brings. The aroma of bubbling cheese and simmering tomato sauce fills the kitchen, creating an inviting ambiance that instantly relaxes and uplifts. It’s a simple dish with the power to create lasting memories, transforming ordinary weeknights into special moments of connection and togetherness. For me, JoEllen's Baked Ziti is more than just a recipe; it's a tradition, a source of comfort, and a delicious celebration of family, friends, and simple joys. Try it, adapt it, and make it your own. I guarantee you won't be disappointed.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add vegetables: Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers are great additions.
- Use different cheeses: Experiment with ricotta, provolone, or a blend of your favorites.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the heavy cream and replace it with a plant-based alternative.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the ziti and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
- Pair it with garlic bread for extra deliciousness.
- Enjoy it as a stand-alone dish or as part of a larger Italian feast.
Enjoy the comforting flavors and the joy of creating this delightful dish in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!
