Beef Ziti Casserole

Beef Ziti Casserole Recipe with Green Beans, Corn, and Cheddar

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Beef Ziti Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve a satisfying and delicious meal. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

History

The concept of combining pasta, meat, and cheese in a baked dish has roots in various cuisines around the world, but the Beef Ziti Casserole as we know it today is a distinctly American creation. It likely evolved from traditional Italian-American pasta dishes, incorporating readily available ingredients and adapting to the tastes and preferences of American families. Over the years, it has become a beloved comfort food, with countless variations being developed to suit different palates and dietary needs.

Ingredients

8 oz (227 g) of uncooked ziti macaroni
1 can (16 oz or 454 g) of Del Monte cut green beans, drained
1 can (11 oz or 312 g) of green Giant niblets corn, drained
1 lb (454 g) of ground beef
2 cans (10.75 oz or 305 g each) of Campbell's Condensed Golden mushroom soup
1 can (14.5 oz or 411 g) of Del Monte stewed tomatoes
1 tsp of dried basil leaves, crushed
0.25 tsp of pepper
0.5 tsp of garlic powder
2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Cook the ziti according to the package directions and drain.
Return the cooked ziti and vegetables (green beans and corn) to the pot used to cook the ziti.
Meanwhile, in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat, cook the beef until browned, stirring to separate the meat. Drain the fat.
Stir in the soup, tomatoes, basil, pepper, and garlic to the meat. Heat thoroughly.
Add the soup mixture to the ziti mixture and mix well.
Spoon the mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
Uncover and sprinkle with cheese. Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese melts.

Variations

For a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of beef and low-fat cheese.
Add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
For a spicy kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Beef Ziti Casserole turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

- Brown the ground beef thoroughly to develop a deep flavor.

- Drain the canned vegetables well to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

- Taste the mixture before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed.

- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Beef Ziti Casserole hot, accompanied by a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness and balance to the meal. A slice of crusty bread can also complement the casserole well, perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the beef properly is key to developing the casserole's flavor. Cook it over medium heat until it's no longer pink, ensuring it's well-drained to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Gluten-free pasta can be used for a gluten-free version.

- Any type of condensed cream soup can substitute the golden mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.

- Fresh tomatoes and herbs can replace canned ones for a fresher taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, bake it according to the recipe instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the baked casserole with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serving it in a colorful dish can also enhance its visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

A medium-bodied red wine, such as a Merlot or a Chianti, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the Beef Ziti Casserole. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warmed. Add a splash of water or broth if the casserole seems dry.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A typical serving of Beef Ziti Casserole contains approximately 400 calories. This makes it a relatively energy-dense meal, ideal for those needing a calorie boost or looking for a satisfying dish that can fuel their activities.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Beef Ziti Casserole contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the pasta and the vegetables. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, so this dish can be a good source of fuel for your body.

Fats

This casserole contains about 20 grams of fat per serving, with the majority coming from the ground beef and cheese. Using lean ground beef and reduced-fat cheese can help lower the fat content without sacrificing flavor.

Proteins

Each serving of Beef Ziti Casserole provides roughly 25 grams of protein, making it a hearty and satisfying option for mealtime. The ground beef and cheese are excellent sources of high-quality protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

The vegetables in this casserole, including green beans and tomatoes, contribute vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like iron and potassium. These nutrients support overall health, including vision, immune function, and heart health.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include wheat (from the pasta) and dairy (from the cheese). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Beef Ziti Casserole is a balanced meal that provides carbohydrates for energy, proteins for muscle maintenance, and fats for nutrient absorption. It also offers a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and dairy components.

Summary

Beef Ziti Casserole is a versatile, comforting dish that combines simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying meal. With options for customization and make-ahead convenience, it's a perfect recipe for busy weeknights, special occasions, or anytime you're in the mood for a hearty, delicious casserole.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a crisp autumn day, with the leaves changing colors and falling gently to the ground. I had just finished my morning walk through the neighborhood when I decided to stop by a local yard sale. As I browsed through the items, a small, tattered recipe book caught my eye. It was filled with handwritten recipes, some of which looked like they had been passed down for generations.

Intrigued, I flipped through the pages and came across a recipe for Beef Ziti Casserole. The ingredients were simple, yet the combination sounded delicious. I could almost taste the savory beef, tangy tomato sauce, and cheesy ziti melting in my mouth. Without hesitation, I purchased the recipe book and hurried home to try it out.

As I gathered the ingredients and followed the instructions, memories flooded my mind of all the times I had spent in the kitchen with my own grandmother. She was the one who first taught me the joy of cooking, and I could still hear her gentle voice guiding me through each recipe. I thought of all the family gatherings and holidays where we shared meals made with love and care.

The aroma of the Beef Ziti Casserole filled my kitchen, and I knew it was ready to be served. I placed the bubbling dish on the table and called my family to join me. As we sat down to eat, the flavors danced on our taste buds, and I knew this recipe would become a cherished favorite in our home.

Over the years, I have made Beef Ziti Casserole countless times, each time tweaking the ingredients and adding my own personal touch. I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who have all raved about its deliciousness. It has become a staple at family gatherings and potlucks, always eliciting compliments and requests for the recipe.

One day, while visiting my dear friend Margaret, she asked me for the recipe for Beef Ziti Casserole. As I shared the story of how I had discovered it at a yard sale, she mentioned that she had a similar recipe in her own collection. Intrigued, I asked her to show it to me.

To my surprise, the recipe in Margaret's collection was nearly identical to the one I had found all those years ago. It seemed that this recipe had been passed down through families and friends, each adding their own twist to make it their own. I was touched by the connection I felt to others who had cooked and shared this dish, and I knew that it would always hold a special place in my heart.

As I write this story, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. The recipe for Beef Ziti Casserole may have come to me by chance, but it has become a beloved tradition in my family. I am grateful for the joy it has brought to my loved ones and the stories it has inspired. And whenever I make it, I am transported back to that crisp autumn day when I first discovered its magic.