Cast Iron Skillet Ziti (30 Minutes)

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This recipe combines al dente ziti pasta with a rich and meaty tomato sauce, seasoned ground beef, and gooey melted cheese. We’ll prepare this dish in a cast iron skillet which adds an extra layer of flavor and creates a crispy, golden crust on top. The result is a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 ounces ziti pasta
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
  4. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine and simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat and add the cooked ziti pasta to the sauce. Mix well to coat the pasta evenly.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta.
  7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Equipment

Notes

Be sure to cook the pasta until al dente as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven. For an extra kick of flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you prefer a crispier top, broil the dish for the last couple of minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated for a quick and delicious meal the next day. Hope you enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/cast-iron-skillet-ziti-30-minutes/