Ultimate Arteflame Grilled Baked Ziti Recipe

Introduction

Creating the perfect Baked Ziti on the Arteflame grill brings out the best flavors with a steakhouse quality sear. This method ensures the ingredients are tender on the inside with a crispy, golden exterior. This recipe will teach you how to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Get the Grill Ready

Start by firing up the Arteflame grill to get it ready for grilling.

Prepare the Pasta

1. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. You can quickly grill the pasta on the flat griddle cooktop to give it a nice seared crunchy outside.

Prepare the Meat

1. In a grill-safe pan, heat the olive oil on the flat cooktop.
2. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.  You can also grill the ground beef and sausage directly on the flat griddle cooktop before combining in the pan.  This gives a better seared and slightly crunchy flavor.
3. Add the marinara sauce to the meat mixture and stir well.

Assemble the Ziti

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
2. Pour the meat sauce over the pasta mixture and mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a grill-safe baking dish.
4. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Grill the Baked Ziti

1. Optional Pizza Oven: If you have the Arteflame Pizza Oven, use this to bake the Ziti.
2. Place the baking dish on the flat top griddle cooktop or on the center grill grate (with grill grate riser) and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.  NOTE: Don't burn the dish when using the center grill grate as this is very hot!
3. Move the baking dish to the outer flat cooktop and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.

Serve

1. Garnish with fresh basil.
2. Serve immediately.

Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat reaches your desired level of doneness.
• Rotate the baking dish on the flat cooktop to utilize different heat zones for even cooking.
• Let the baked ziti rest after grilling to retain its flavors.

Conclusion

Enjoy your perfectly seared and flavorful Baked Ziti, a true grilling masterpiece. This recipe guarantees a crispy, tender result every time you fire up your Arteflame grill.

Variations

Vegetarian Baked Ziti

Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.

Spicy Baked Ziti

Add red pepper flakes and a diced jalapeño to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.

Four Cheese Baked Ziti

Include provolone and fontina cheese in the mixture for an extra cheesy delight.

Pesto Baked Ziti

Mix 1/4 cup of pesto into the ricotta cheese for a fresh, herby flavor.

Chicken Baked Ziti

Replace the ground beef with grilled chicken breast, sliced thinly.

Pairings

Best Drink

Serve with a chilled glass of Chianti or a refreshing iced tea.

Best Appetizer

Pair with a Caesar salad or garlic bread.

Best Dessert

Enjoy with a slice of tiramisu or grilled peaches with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.