Family-friendly meals are those that are not only delicious but also appeal to a variety of tastes, including those of picky eaters. We understand the challenges of preparing meals that appeal to both kids and adults. To make your family dinners stress-free and enjoyable, we ‘have come across a delicious and family-friendly recipe.
One-Pan Baked Ziti
What makes this one-pan baked ziti particularly special is its universal appeal. It caters to the tastes of both kids and adults, striking that delicate balance between simplicity and indulgence. It’s a crowd-pleaser that transforms a weeknight meal into a delightful family gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) ziti pasta
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces/800g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14 ounces/400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instruction
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles. If using sausage, remove the casings before cooking.
- Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook until the onion is softened.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes, including their juices. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the uncooked ziti pasta to the pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Stir to combine with the sauce.
- Cover the pan with a lid or aluminum foil and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the pasta.
- Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Serve directly from the pan and enjoy your delicious and easy one-pan baked ziti!
Feel free to customise the recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or by using a different type of cheese for added flavour.
In a world full of complicated recipes, sometimes all you need is one pan and a whole lot of love. Enter: One-pan baked ziti
