If you’re in the mood for a hearty Italian dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table, look no further than this Baked Sicilian Ziti with Meat, Eggplant & Melty Cheese (Ziti al Forno alla Siciliana). This dish is a beautiful marriage of flavors, with layers of baked ziti pasta, tender eggplant, and a rich meat sauce topped with oozing mozzarella cheese. It’s the perfect recipe for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Imagine digging into a bubbling casserole dish with crispy golden cheese on top, where each bite is a delicious blend of pasta, creamy ricotta, and savory meat sauce. This baked ziti is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, this Italian Pasta Dish is straightforward and rewarding.
Layers of Flavor: Baked Sicilian Ziti with Eggplant
Baked Sicilian Ziti with Meat, Eggplant & Melty Cheese (Ziti al Forno alla Siciliana) stands out as a delightful dish that combines comfort and culinary tradition. With its rich layers, it highlights the harmony of ingredients coming together to create a memorable experience.
This dish features baked ziti pasta layered with tender eggplant, smooth ricotta, and savory meat sauce. As it bakes, the cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling topping that invites everyone to the table. Each layer contributes to the overall depth of flavor, making it a satisfying meal for any gathering.
The Heart of the Dish: Savory Meat Sauce
The savory meat sauce is the foundation of this dish, bringing a robust flavor that complements the pasta and eggplant perfectly. Made with ground beef or Italian sausage, this sauce is cooked slowly to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Onions and garlic add a soft aromatic background that enhances the palate.
Crushed tomatoes, seasoned with oregano, salt, and pepper, create the perfect balance of acidity and richness. This sauce not only binds the layers together but also ensures that each serving is packed with taste, making every bite an enjoyable experience.
Preparation of the Ingredients
Preparing the ingredients is a crucial step in achieving the best results for the baked ziti. The eggplant must first be sliced and salted to draw out excess moisture, which helps prevent the dish from becoming soggy. After a brief resting period, rinsing and patting the eggplant dry ensures it cooks to a tender finish.
Meanwhile, the ziti pasta is boiled until it reaches an al dente texture. This is important because the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so starting with a firmer texture helps maintain its structure throughout the baking process.
Layering the Baked Ziti
When it’s time to build the dish, the layering process is both strategic and creative. Start by spreading a layer of savory meat sauce at the bottom of a rustic baking dish. This acts as a flavorful base for the rest of the ingredients.
Follow this with half of the cooked ziti, then dollops of ricotta cheese, the sautéed eggplant, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella. This combination of textures and flavors creates a delightful contrast that will be cherished by all. Repeat this layering, finishing with more meat sauce and mozzarella on top, ensuring a glorious cheesy crust once baked.
Baking to Golden Perfection
Baking the ziti requires careful attention to timing to achieve the perfect finish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil initially to trap steam, allowing the layers to meld and heat through. After about 25 minutes, removing the foil lets the cheese develop a beautiful golden color while bubbling enticingly.
The anticipation builds as the aroma fills the kitchen, signaling that dinner is nearly ready. Just a few more minutes in the oven will bring this delightful dish to truly satisfying completion.
Serving and Enjoying the Dish
After baking, letting the Baked Sicilian Ziti cool for a few moments allows for easier slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
As you dig into this comforting meal, each bite reveals layers of pasta, cheese, eggplant, and meat sauce, making it a fulfilling experience for everyone at the table. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this baked ziti is sure to please and leave a lasting impression on all who indulge.
Baked Ziti with Eggplant and Rich Meat Sauce
This Baked Sicilian Ziti is a delightful combination of baked ziti pasta layered with eggplant, ricotta, mozzarella, and a savory meat sauce. It’s a mouthwatering dish that balances the flavors perfectly, providing a satisfying and comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 1 medium eggplant, sliced and salted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Eggplant: Sprinkle the sliced eggplant with salt and let it sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Eggplant: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the eggplant slices and cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Meat Sauce: In the same skillet, add ground beef (or sausage), onion, and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a large baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the ricotta, eggplant slices, and mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining meat sauce and mozzarella cheese on top. Sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 portions
- Calories: 420kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g