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smoked gluten-free baked ziti - featured image

Gluten-Free Baked Ziti: Smoked Pasta Recipe

  • Author: Harper
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

A hearty, creamy gluten-free baked ziti smoked to perfection with whole milk ricotta, fresh basil, and a savory meat sauce, offering a smoky depth and perfect texture that rivals traditional oven-baked versions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) Gluten-Free Ziti Pasta (brown rice and corn starch blend)
  • 15 ounces (425g) Whole Milk Ricotta (drained)
  • 2 cups (480ml) Marinara Sauce
  • 1 pound (450g) Ground Beef or Italian Sausage (50/50 blend recommended)
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 cups (200g) Low-Moisture Shredded Mozzarella
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil, chopped (divided)
  • ½ cup (50g) Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • Salt and Black Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep ingredients: Mince garlic, chop basil, grate cheeses, and drain ricotta in a sieve for 15 minutes.
  2. Heat smoker or grill with indirect heat to 325°F (160°C) using applewood or cherry wood chips.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef or sausage, breaking it up with a spoon.
  4. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add marinara sauce and half of the chopped basil. Simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors. Adjust seasoning.
  6. Boil gluten-free ziti in salted water according to package directions, but drain 1-2 minutes before fully al dente. Do not rinse.
  7. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half the meat sauce on the bottom. Add cooked pasta, then dollops of ricotta. Pour remaining sauce on top.
  8. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan. Dot with remaining fresh basil.
  9. Place dish in smoker away from direct heat. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and smoke for 20 minutes.
  10. Remove foil and smoke for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  11. Remove from smoker and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Ensure gluten-free pasta is undercooked by 2 minutes as it continues to cook in the sauce. Drain ricotta thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole. Use low-moisture mozzarella for better melting. Rest the dish for 10 minutes before serving to allow cheese to set.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1
  • Calories: 480
  • Sodium: 650
  • Fat: 22
  • Saturated Fat: 11
  • Carbohydrates: 45
  • Fiber: 3
  • Protein: 28

Keywords: gluten-free baked ziti, smoked pasta, gluten-free dinner, outdoor cooking, smoker recipes, comfort food, family dinner

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Find it online: https://warmdinner.online/gluten-free-baked-ziti-smoked-pasta-recipe/