Prepared Ziti Dish Infused with Prosciutto
Kick up Your Potluck Game with This Mouthwatering, Adult-Friendly Baked Ziti Recipe!
Hey there fellow foodies! Get ready to steal the show at your next gathering with this mind-blowing adult version of mac 'n' cheese - Baked Ziti! It's all thanks to the culinary genius of Hugo Matheson, the chef behind the outstanding Boulder, Colorado restaurant, The Kitchen. But remember, top-notch ingredients make all the difference in this simple, yet sensational dish.
Grocery List:
- If prosciutto ain't your thing, opt for any thinly sliced, high-quality salt-cured ham, such as jamon serrano. Or, make it a vegetarian delight by leaving out the prosciutto entirely.
- A good-quality cheese is key for this recipe, so ditch that pre-grated stuff. It simply won't deliver the incredible depth of flavor you deserve. If you're not into Gruyere, aged cheddar will do the trick.
Strategize Like a Pro:
- You can assemble this dish ahead of time, then store it in the fridge for up to a day. To serve, leave it out at room temperature for 30 minutes before popping it in the oven until hot and bubbly.
This scrumptious Ziti was part of our Satisfy & Impress Modern Potluck menu.
- Serves: 8 hungry souls
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Step-By-Step Guidance - Straight from the Kitchen:
- Turn on your oven to 350°F. Cook your pasta according to the package directions. Once it's done, drain and reserve it.
- In a large pot, heat heavy cream over medium heat until it simmers. Take it off the burner, add most of the cheese, and stir until it's all melted. Add a pinch of nutmeg, then mix in the pasta and prosciutto. Season well with salt and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs, softened butter, minced garlic, thyme, and remaining cheese. Work it together with your fingers until no butter chunks remain. Season it well with salt and pepper too.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a 2 1/2 quart ceramic or glass casserole dish. Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top.
- Bake it until it's golden brown and bubbly - roughly 20 minutes.
Beverage Pairing: Benton-Lane Pinot Noir, Oregon. A new-world Pinot's fruity warmth complements the amazing flavors in this rich and indulgent dish. In this Oregon gem, Bing cherry and raspberry flavors are tempered by a refreshing tartness and crisp acidity. Enjoy!
Follow the Crowd - Get Creative with Your Substitutes:
- If prosciutto isn't your thing, try out Mortadella, Pancetta, Guanciale, or even ham for a similar depth of flavor.
Why Grate Your Own Cheese?
- Using pre-grated cheese might affect the flavor and texture of your dish: pre-grated stuff may have added preservatives that alter the taste, and it might not melt as smoothly. However, pre-grated cheese is still a fine choice, especially for last-minute meals. For the best taste and texture, hand-grate your cheese just before tossing it into your pasta masterpiece.
- If you prefer jamon serrano over prosciutto, feel free to use that instead in this Baked Ziti recipe.
- For a vegetarian version of this dish, simply omit the prosciutto.
- While Gruyere is recommended for the best flavor, aged cheddar can also be used as a suitable substitute.
- Instructions for this mouthwatering Baked Ziti recipe yield a delightful meal that serves 8 people, ensuring everyone at your potluck will be well-fed and impressed.
