Description
A hearty, flavor-packed gluten-free baked ziti with slow-cooked beef and herb-infused marinara, offering a perfect balance of textures and the signature golden-brown crust. This modern take on Southern Italian comfort food satisfies dietary needs without skimping on taste.
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
2 large garlic cloves, minced
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1.5 lbs boneless beef chuck, trimmed
1 tsp fennel seeds
1 cup marinara sauce (gluten-free)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (gluten-free)
Fresh basil and oregano, chopped
12 oz gluten-free ziti pasta
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic and onions, caramelizing for 10-12 minutes. Add fennel seeds and cook for 2 minutes. Add beef and sear until browned. Stir in marinara sauce, herbs, and lemon juice; simmer 45 minutes. Cook ziti pasta 1 minute less than package instructions, drain. In a bowl, mix ricotta and mozzarella with a bit of salt and herbs. Layer pasta and sauce in a baking dish, top with cheese mixture. Bake for 30 minutes, then broil for 5 minutes for a golden crust.
Notes
Substitute ricotta and mozzarella with a vegan ricotta- nutritional yeast blend. Ensure all ingredients (especially marinara) are gluten-free certified. For extra richness, add a splash of beef stock during simmering.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 135
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern Italian fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pasta serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg