Sure, here are the required ingredients to make a delicious 16-oz ziti noodle and beef meal, optimized for SEO and user-friendly browsing:
**16 oz Ziti Noodles Beef Pasta Ingredient List**:
- 16 oz dried ziti pasta (or elbow macaroni, penne, rigatoni, etc.)
- 800 - 900 g minced or coarsely ground beef. (ground lean turkey or chicken with high beef aroma spice blends also work.)
- Salt and pepper - adjust to taste based on your cooking style/spice tolerance.
- Tomato sauce with ground pepper (homemade sauce using Roma tomatoes or your trusted jarred store-bought brand - marinara and arrabiata work particularly well for this classic dish but feel free to customize based on flavor profiles you’re aiming for!)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnishing, optional to add on cooked dish before serving).
Steps
## Ziti Noodles with Beef: A Scrumptious Comfort Food Masterpiece
Indulge in the flavors of an Italian-American kitchen with this hearty and delectable recipe for 16 oz ziti noodles with beef. This mouthwatering pasta bake combines tender ziti noodles, succulent ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, making it a guaranteed family favorite. Follow these detailed, SEO-friendly steps to ensure a remarkable culinary experience.
**Ingredients:**
* 16 ounces (453 grams) ziti noodles (penne pasta can also be used)
1. **Preparation**: Prepare your cooking station by ensuring all ingredients are measured and neatly arranged. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil for the pasta.
2. **Cooking Ziti Noodles**: Once the water reaches a rolling boil, cook the ziti noodles according to the package instructions for al dente texture (usually around 6 to 8 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking. While the ziti cooks, move on to the next steps.
3. **Browning the Beef**: Place a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, crumble the ground beef and cook until it's browned. Using a spatula, break up any large clumps of beef to ensure even cooking.
4. **Adding Veggies and Sauce**: To the skillet with the browned beef, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Saute until the onion becomes translucent and slightly caramelized. Next, pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine. Season with dried oregano, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
5. **Combining Beef and Ziti**: When the ziti noodles are ready, drain the water and set them aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti noodles and the simmering beef sauce. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure the noodles are evenly coated with the rich sauce.
6. **Baking the Casserole**: Now it's time for the baking magic. Take a 9x13 inch baking dish or casserole dish and spray it with cooking spray to prevent the pasta from sticking. Transfer the ziti noodles and beef mixture to the dish, spreading it evenly throughout.
7. **Cheesy Delights**: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta bake, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. The two cheeses will provide an irresistible topping with melted gooeyness.
8. **Oven Magic**: Before placing the uncovered pasta bake in the preheated oven, confirm that the oven is stable at 375°F (190°C). Bake the ziti noodle casserole for approximately 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the edges start to slightly brown.
9. **Final Touches**: Take the freshly baked ziti noodles beef casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional) to enhance the flavor profile. Savor this delectable dish while it's warm. Bon appétit!
**Conclusion:**
This satisfying and flavorsome recipe for 16 oz ziti noodles with beef combines the goodness of tender pasta, luscious ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and a cheesy topping. By following these concise instructions, you can effortlessly craft a scrumptious pasta bake that will provide comfort and pleasure to your family and friends. Enjoy the taste of a delightful Italian-American culinary journey with this exceptional ziti noodles beef creation.