Sunday, August 31, 2008

One Pan Baked Ziti

This will revolutionize the way you make pasta.

1 Tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 lb ground beef (optional)
1 14.5 oz can tomato sauce
Salt to taste
2 tsp dried basil (you can use fresh, but don't add it until the pasta has cooked)
2 cups water
2 1/2 cups penne pasta (any tube pasta will do)
1/4 cup heavy cream (I used 2% milk cuz it was all I had)
1/2 cup parmesan cheese
pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Add oil, garlic, and red pepper flake to 10 inch skillet. Cook on medium for 1 minute. Add ground beef and brown. Add tomato sauce, salt, dried basil, water, and DRIED (yes dried) pasta. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium. Cook for 12-15 minutes (until pasta is soft), stirring occasionally. Stir in cream, parmesan, and pepper. Sprinkle cheese on top. Bake in 350 degree oven for 10 minutes.