Rach Adds Greek Flavors to Italian Favorite Baked Ziti

Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F

Step 2

Bring a large pot of water to a boil for pasta

Step 3

Heat a Dutch oven to medium-high heat and add EVOO, 2 turns of the pan

Step 4

Add meat and brown and crumble, then season with salt, pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes and fennel seeds or pollen

Step 5

Add onions, garlic, bay, cloves, cinnamon, broth or stock and tomatoes, bring to a bubble, then reduce heat to low and simmer to thicken 20 minutes

Step 6

In a food processor or blender, combine the ricotta, feta, egg yolks, half the Parm or kasseri, half-n-half or milk, nutmeg, salt and pepper; process until smooth

Step 7

Cook pasta 6 to 7 minutes in salted water, drain and toss with meat sauce, removing bay leaf and cinnamon stick

Step 8

Transfer ziti to 9 x 13 baking dish and top with an even layer of ricotta sauce and remaining Parm or kasseri

Step 9

Bake until hot, about 15 to 20 minutes, then broil to brown

Step 10

Let stand 5 to 10 minutes

Step 11

Top with parsley or parsley and mint and serve