Ah, comfort food. There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty dish to make you feel like you’re getting a big, delicious hug from the inside out. And when it comes to comfort, Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti is a dish that stands out. It’s rich, it’s cheesy, and it packs a flavor punch that can turn any regular meal into a special occasion.
Today, I’m thrilled to share how you can recreate this delightful dish in your very own kitchen. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or just want to spice up your weeknight dinner routine, this recipe is your ticket to a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Taylor Street Baked Ziti Recipe Overview
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of crafting this delicious dish, here’s a quick overview to get you started:
- Course: Main Dish
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Total Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Equipment Needed
You don’t need a kitchen decked out with the latest gadgets to make a spectacular baked ziti. However, a few basics will make the process smoother:
- Oven
- Large pot
- Strainer
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13 baking dish
A simple setup, but each plays a pivotal role in ensuring your Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti turns out perfect.
Ingredients for Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti
There is a table below that shows what you will need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ziti pasta | 1 pound (about 450g) |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 2 cups |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/2 cup |
| Marinara sauce | 3 cups |
| Ground beef | 1 pound (450g) |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh basil, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
Note: For an authentic touch, choose a high-quality marinara sauce with a rich, deep flavor.
Step by Step Instructions
Step: Preparing Your Ingredients
- Firstly, heat your oven up to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil the ziti according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Set the pan on medium heat and add the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Put in the ground beef and break it up as it cooks.
- Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Pro Tip: Properly seasoning your beef is key to a flavorful dish!
Step: Assembling the Ziti
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, one cup of mozzarella, marinara sauce, cooked ground beef, and half of the chopped basil. Mix well to ensure each noodle is coated in cheesy, saucy goodness.
- Transfer the ziti mixture to your baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Include the rest of the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses on top.
Remember: Cheese is what gives this dish its irresistibly gooey texture!
Step: Baking the Dish
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with the remaining basil before serving.
Fun Fact: Did you know that ziti is named after the word ‘zita’ which means bride? In some parts of Italy, it’s traditionally served at weddings!
Additional Tips For Perfect Taylor Street Baked Ziti
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for a new twist on this classic dish.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the ziti a day ahead and bake it just before serving for a stress-free meal.
Best Served With
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with:
- A crisp green salad
- Garlic bread
Serving Suggestion: The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the baked ziti, making for a perfectly rounded meal.
Nutrition in Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti
Here’s a quick look at what you’re indulging in per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 60g |
| Fat | 28g |
Approximation Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
What Makes Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti Delicious
It’s all about the layers of flavors—from the tangy marinara to the creamy ricotta and the melt-in-your-mouth mozzarella. Plus, the slight crunch of the baked cheese topping adds a delightful contrast to the soft, pillowy pasta beneath.
FAQs About Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti
How can I prevent my baked ziti from being too dry?
To keep your baked ziti moist and creamy, make sure not to overcook the pasta during the initial boil. The pasta should be just al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While ziti is traditional, feel free to substitute penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli if that’s what you have on hand.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, baked ziti freezes beautifully. Cool it completely before covering it tightly and freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until thoroughly warmed.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers is a great way to incorporate more nutrients and flavors into the dish.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly. For quicker reheating, you can also use the microwave.
Conclusion
Making Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti at home is a delightful way to bring some Italian-American flair to your table. It’s hearty, satisfying, and sure to be a hit whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests. Give this recipe a try and see just how simple it is to create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.
Feel free to leave your thoughts, questions, or feedback on this recipe below. I’d love to hear about your experiences and any personal twists you put on this classic dish!
Check out some more delicious main dish recipes:
- Dallas BBQ Sticky Wings Recipe
- Chicken Modiga Recipe
- Santiago’s Green Chili Recipe
- Crispy Italian Chicken Cutlets Recipe
- Pistachio Crusted Fish Recipe
- Dutch Oven Barbacoa Recipe
Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
- Large pot
- Strainer
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13 baking dish
Ingredients
- 1 pound about 450g Ziti pasta
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese
- 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 3 cups Marinara sauce
- 1 pound 450g Ground beef
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1/4 cup Fresh basil chopped
- To taste Salt
- To taste Pepper
Instructions
Step: Preparing Your Ingredients
- Firstly, heat your oven up to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil the ziti according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Set the pan on medium heat and add the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Put in the ground beef and break it up as it cooks.
- Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Step: Assembling the Ziti
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, one cup of mozzarella, marinara sauce, cooked ground beef, and half of the chopped basil. Mix well to ensure each noodle is coated in cheesy, saucy goodness.
- Transfer the ziti mixture to your baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Include the rest of the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses on top.
Step: Baking the Dish
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with the remaining basil before serving.
Notes
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for a new twist on this classic dish.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the ziti a day ahead and bake it just before serving for a stress-free meal.
