Carmela’s "Priest-Bait" Baked Ziti
Show Context
In the Pilot, Carmela makes a tray of ziti so good that Father Phil practically moves into the house to eat it. It is the currency of love, guilt, and apology in the Soprano household. If you wake up and your husband isn't there, but this ziti is in the fridge, everything might just be okay.
The holy grail of New Jersey casseroles. Cheesy, comforting, and manipulative.
Instructions
- 01
Start the Gravy: In a large pot, brown the sausage meat in olive oil. Add onions and garlic until they smell like Sunday afternoon. Dump in the tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and basil. Let it simmer on low. Go watch TV for an hour.
- 02
The Pasta: Boil the ziti in salted water. Cook it al dente (firm to the bite). If it’s mushy now, it’ll be baby food later. Drain it.
- 03
The Filling: In a bowl, mix the ricotta, beaten eggs, parsley, half the mozzarella, and half the parmesan. Add salt and pepper.
- 04
Assembly: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese mixture and about 2 cups of your cooled meat sauce.
- 05
The Layering: Grease a large 9x13 baking dish. Pour the pasta mix in. Top with the remaining sauce, the rest of the mozzarella, and the rest of the parmesan.
- 06
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
- 07
Serve: Let it sit for 10 minutes before cutting. Serve hot. If you hear heavy breathing, it’s probably Father Phil at the door.