BAKED LEMON ZITI

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Baked Lemon Ziti image

Provided by Giada De Laurentiis

Categories     main-dish

Time 1h40m

Yield 8 to 10 servings

Number Of Ingredients 19

Butter, for greasing the baking dish
Salt
1 pound ziti pasta
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
12 ounces pancetta, sliced into 1/4-inch thick slices, chopped
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 1/2 cups whole milk, at room temperature
Zest of 2 large lemons
3/4 cup grated Parmesan
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup chopped fresh basil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 1 large lemon)
2 cups shredded mozzarella
2/3 cup plain breadcrumbs
1/3 cup grated Parmesan
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Steps:

  • For the pasta: Place an oven rack in the center of the oven. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter a 13- by 9- by 2-inch glass or ceramic baking dish.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, 8 to 10 minutes.
  • In a large nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pancetta and cook until brown and crispy, about 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove the pancetta and drain on paper towels.
  • For the sauce: In a 2-quart saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the lemon zest. Simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the Parmesan, salt and pepper.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cheese sauce, cooked pancetta, pasta, basil and thyme. Toss until the ingredients are coated. Stir in the lemon juice. Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with the mozzarella.
  • For the topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
  • Sprinkle the topping over the pasta mixture. Drizzle the top with olive oil and bake until the top is golden brown, 25 minutes. Cool for 10 minutes and serve.

Natalia Cackowski
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This was a great recipe! The lemon flavor was subtle and the sauce was creamy and flavorful. I will definitely be making this again.


Lekula Mmolawa
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This recipe is a winner! The lemon and garlic flavors are perfectly balanced, and the creamy sauce is divine. I highly recommend this recipe.


Kawtr Snossi
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I'm not a huge fan of lemon pasta, but I decided to give this recipe a try. I'm so glad I did! The lemon flavor was subtle and refreshing, and the sauce was creamy and delicious. I'll definitely be making this again.


Dt Farid
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This recipe was a lifesaver on a busy weeknight. It was quick and easy to make, and my family loved it. The lemon flavor was a nice change from the usual tomato sauce.


M Rehan Rehan
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I made this recipe for a potluck and it was a huge hit. Everyone loved the creamy lemon sauce and the tender ziti. I'll definitely be making this again.


NI RO B AH ME D
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I'm a huge fan of lemon pasta and this recipe did not disappoint. The lemon flavor was perfectly subtle and the sauce was creamy and delicious. I highly recommend this recipe.


MD Shadab
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This was my first time making lemon ziti and it turned out great! The recipe was easy to follow and the dish was delicious. I'll definitely be making this again.


Adnan Rajpoot
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I've made this recipe several times and it's always a hit. The lemon and garlic flavors are so well-balanced, and the creamy sauce is to die for.


Kaif sultan
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This recipe is a keeper! It's easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. I love the bright lemon flavor and the creamy sauce.


kinza Baloch
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I thought this recipe was just okay. The lemon flavor was a bit too strong for my taste, and the sauce was a little bland.


Undercutz
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This recipe was a disaster. The sauce was too thin and the ziti was overcooked. I don't recommend this recipe.


Simone Pereira
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I made this for my family and they all loved it. The sauce was creamy and flavorful, and the ziti was cooked perfectly. I will definitely be making this again.


Curniece McHenry
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This was so easy to make and so delicious! I loved the combination of flavors and textures. The lemon zest really brightened up the dish.


Mp parajuli
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I'm not usually a fan of lemon pasta, but this recipe changed my mind. The lemon flavor was subtle and refreshing, and the creamy sauce was divine. I'll definitely be making this again.


Shristi Riti
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This recipe was a hit at my dinner party! The lemon and garlic flavors were perfectly balanced, and the ziti cooked to al dente perfection. Everyone raved about it.