Award-winning chef. Successful restaurateur. Iron Chef judge. Social media star. Donatella Arpaia has done it all. Still her favorite thing to do is working in the kitchen, creating inspiring dishes using the freshest, most authentic ingredients—including Galbani® cheese. Explore her latest menu ideas and learn tricks of the trade from this inspirational entrepreneur.

Galbani® Baked Ziti With Mini Meatballs

INGREDIENTS

1 tsp. Kosher salt, divided
1 lb. Ziti pasta
2 tbsp. Olive oil, plus enough to coat baking dish
3 cups Mini meatballs
5 cups Marinara sauce
15 oz. Galbani Ricotta
½ cup Galbani Parmesan, grated
½ tsp. Freshly ground black pepper
3 tbsp. Fresh chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
1 Egg plus one egg yolk, slightly beaten
1 tsp. Basil
3 cups Galbani Fresh Mozzarella, sliced
   

METHOD

  1. Coat a 9"×13" baking dish with olive oil. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
     
  2. Add water and ½ tsp. salt to a large pot and bring to a boil. Add ziti, and cook according to package instructions less one minute.
     
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add mini meatballs in batches, and cook until all sides are browned, about 2–3 minutes. Set aside meatballs to drain on paper towels.
     
  4. Add marinara sauce to the skillet, bring the heat down to low, and simmer for 15 minutes. Allow the sauce to cool.
     
  5. In a large mixing bowl, mix the Ricotta, Parmesan, the remaining salt and black pepper, parsley, basil, and the beaten egg and egg yolk until well incorporated.
     
  6. Add in cooked pasta and stir. Lastly, add the sauce and mini meatballs.
     
  7. Spread pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, and top with sliced Mozzarella. Place into oven and bake until bubbly, about 25–30 minutes.
     
  8. Remove from oven, and let stand 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Pairings

  • Wine & Spirits
  • Beer
  • Proteins
  • Fruits & Vegetables
  • Nuts, Grains & Starches
  • Flavors, Spices & Condiments