Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti Recipe – Cravefuly

Italian cuisine is loved by people all over the world for its rich flavors and hearty dishes. Among the various Italian dishes, baked ziti holds a special place in the hearts of many. One of the most famous versions of this delectable dish is Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti. 

In this blog post, we will explore the tantalizing flavors of this recipe and provide you with all the information you need to recreate it in your own kitchen.

What is Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti?

Maggiano’s Little Italy is an American casual dining restaurant chain that specializes in Italian-American cuisine. One of its most popular items is Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti. It is a wonderful combination of pasta, Italian sausage, cheese, and a flavorful tomato sauce.

This dish is known for its layers of rich flavors and comforting textures that will leave you craving for more. It is named after Maggiano’s Little Italy, a renowned Italian-American restaurant chain based in Chicago.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

The flavor profile of Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti is a delightful balance of rich, savory, and tangy notes. The pasta provides a satisfying chewiness, while the Italian sausage adds a savory, slightly spicy kick.

The tomato sauce contributes a tangy and sweet taste, perfectly complementing the other ingredients. The combination of various cheeses gives the dish a creamy and indulgent flavor. Overall, the flavor profile is robust, comforting, and undeniably delicious.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti Recipes?

Although there are many variations of baked ziti, Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti recipe stands out for its meticulous attention to detail and the use of high-quality ingredients. The blend of herbs and spices used in their tomato sauce creates a robust and distinctive flavor. 

Additionally, the generous amount of cheese used in this recipe ensures a creamy and cheesy consistency that perfectly complements the other ingredients. The combination of these factors sets Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti apart from other recipes and makes it truly exceptional.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

To make Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti, you will need the following ingredients:

• Dried Ziti Pasta: This fundamental ingredient serves as the base for the dish, providing a hearty and satisfying texture to the baked ziti.
• Minced Garlic: Garlic enhances the overall flavor profile, infusing the dish with a rich and savory aroma. It adds depth and complexity to the taste.
• White Wine: White wine contributes acidity and brightness to the recipe, balancing the richness of the other ingredients. It also imparts a subtle flavor that compliments the pasta and sausage.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil not only adds a luscious and savory quality to the dish but also helps prevent the pasta from sticking together during the cooking process.
• Butter: Butter contributes a luxurious and velvety texture to the baked ziti, enhancing its overall richness. It adds a layer of indulgence to the dish.
• Basil Sprigs: Fresh basil serves as a fragrant garnish, imparting a burst of herbal freshness to the baked ziti. It adds a vibrant and aromatic element to the presentation.
• Parmesan Cheese: Aged Parmesan brings a bold and nutty flavor, providing a sharp contrast to the other ingredients. It adds depth and richness to the overall taste of the dish.
• Italian Sausage: Italian sausage is a key protein source that infuses the dish with savory and robust flavors. It contributes to the hearty and satisfying nature of the baked ziti.
• Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add a juicy and succulent element to the dish, providing bursts of freshness and sweetness. They contribute to the overall balance of flavors.
• Robust Marinara Sauce: Marinara sauce serves as the primary sauce base, offering a robust and flavorful coating for the pasta. It ties the ingredients together and brings a classic Italian taste to the dish.
• Chopped Basil: Chopped basil enhances the herbal notes in the dish, adding a bright and aromatic touch. It complements the other basil elements in the recipe.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella cheese contributes a creamy and gooey texture to the baked ziti, creating a satisfying and indulgent experience. It also adds a mild and melty flavor to the dish.

Step by Step Directions:

Follow these step-by-step instructions to recreate the mouthwatering Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti in your own kitchen:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the desired temperature by the time your dish is ready for baking.

Step 2: Cook the Ziti Pasta

• Follow the instructions on the package to cook the ziti pasta. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.

Step 3: Prepare the Skillet

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until it becomes fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Italian Sausage

• Introduce Italian sausage to the skillet and cook it thoroughly until it achieves a browned texture and is cooked through.

Step 5: Introduce White Wine

• Pour in white wine and allow it to cook for a few minutes, enabling the alcohol to evaporate and infuse its flavor into the dish.

Step 6: Add Tomatoes and Marinara Sauce

• Stir in diced tomatoes and marinara sauce, ensuring a thorough combination. Let the sauce simmer for approximately 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 7: Combine Pasta with Sauce

• In a large mixing bowl, gently mix the cooked ziti pasta with the prepared sauce, ensuring each pasta piece is evenly coated.

Step 8: Create the First Layer

• Spread half of the pasta mixture in a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 9: Build Another Layer

• Add another layer of pasta and top it with the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.

Step 10: Dot with Butter and Garnish

• Dot the surface of the dish with butter and garnish with basil sprigs to enhance the aroma and flavor.

Step 11: Cover and Bake

• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld and cook.

Step 12: Uncover and Continue Baking

• Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and achieves a golden brown hue.

Step 13: Rest Before Serving

• Once baked, let the ziti rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to develop, and the dish to set, ensuring a delicious and cohesive dining experience.

Nutrition Information:

The nutrition information for Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti can vary depending on the portion size and specific ingredients used. However, here is a general breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving:

– Calories: 510
– Protein: 27g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 35g
– Saturated Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 4g
– Sodium: 1000mg

How Can I Store This Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti?

If you have leftovers or want to make the ziti in advance, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to transfer the baked ziti to an airtight container before refrigerating. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in the microwave or oven until heated through.

If the Items Are Not Available in Your Kitchen, What Are Some Substitute Options for the Ingredients?

If you don’t have access to certain ingredients for Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti, here are some substitute options:

1. Italian Sausage: You can replace Italian sausage with ground beef or ground turkey for a leaner option. Add some Italian seasoning or fennel seeds to the meat while cooking to mimic the flavor of the sausage.
2. White Wine: For a non-alcoholic substitute, use vegetable or chicken broth. Alternatively, you can add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
3. Marinara Sauce: If you don’t have marinara sauce, you can use canned tomato sauce or even tomato soup as a substitute. However, you may need to adjust the seasoning accordingly to ensure a robust flavor.
4. Fresh Basil: If you can’t find fresh basil, dried basil can be used, but reduce the quantity by half since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Conclusion:

Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti is a classic Italian dish that never fails to satisfy. With its savory flavors, creamy cheese, and comforting textures, it is a true crowd-pleaser. By following the step-by-step directions and incorporating our tips, you can easily recreate this mouthwatering recipe in your own kitchen. 

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to indulge in a delicious meal, Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor a taste of Italy in every bite!

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