If you’re on the hunt for a creamy, cheesy, and downright delightful dinner that the whole family will love, look no further than Baked Ziti with Ricotta. This classic Italian-American dish is comfort food at its best, coming together in one big, bubbling casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Did you know that baked ziti originally started as a way to use up leftover pasta? Talk about resourcefulness! What makes this recipe special is not just its comforting flavor but also its simplicity and quick prep time, making it an ideal choice for cooks of all skill levels.
While you may love delicious pasta dishes like Spaghetti Carbonara or Fettuccine Alfredo, there’s something uniquely satisfying about digging into a hearty portion of baked ziti straight from the oven. With gooey cheese, a rich marinara sauce, and a mix of ziti and ricotta that creates layers of flavor, your taste buds are in for a treat. So, grab your apron, and let’s get ready to create a dish that will become a family favorite!
What is Baked Ziti with Ricotta?
So, you might be wondering, why is it called Baked Ziti? Is it because ziti takes a vacation in the oven? Not quite, but it’s a funny thought, isn’t it? The name comes from the ziti pasta shape, which is short, tubular, and perfect for capturing all that rich, meaty sauce. Legend has it that this dish gained popularity in the U.S. as Italian immigrants sought to recreate their beloved home-cooked meals.
And let’s not forget the saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—baked ziti certainly has a way of winning hearts, whether you’re impressing a date or celebrating a family get-together. So, roll up your sleeves and try whipping up this deliciously cheesy recipe; you just might find yourself becoming a superstar in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti with Ricotta
Baked Ziti with Ricotta has several standout features that make it a must-try! First off, this dish has a creamy texture that will leave you wanting more. The ricotta cheese mingles effortlessly with marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Not only is it indulgently tasty, but making it at home is budget-friendly! Just think about how much you’d spend ordering a pasta dish at a restaurant. With baked ziti, you’ll save money while treating your family to a marvelous meal that feels restaurant-worthy but is made with love right in your kitchen.
And don’t get me started on the toppings! Whether you sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving or add garlic bread on the side, each bite becomes an experience. If you love baked pasta as much as this recipe, you might also want to check out our easy Lasagna; it’s another win-win for the family table!
How to Make Baked Ziti with Ricotta
Quick Overview
Baked Ziti with Ricotta is not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare. In about 30 minutes of prep time and under an hour in the oven, you’ll have a dish that’s flavorful, cheesy, and satisfying. The key elements include a creamy ricotta cheese mixture and layers of ziti pasta enveloped in rich marinara sauce, topped off with melted mozzarella.
Key Ingredients for Baked Ziti with Ricotta
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) — a must for achieving that perfect golden top!
2. Cook the Ziti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the marinara sauce and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Mix the Cheeses: In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Feel free to add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste!
5. Combine: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti, marinara sauce, and the cheese mixture. Stir until everything is well coated.
6. Layer in an Ovenproof Dish: Transfer half of the ziti mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Then layer half of the remaining marinara sauce followed by the rest of the ziti mixture, and top with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot!
What to Serve Baked Ziti with Ricotta
To complement your Baked Ziti with Ricotta, consider serving a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. The crispness of a salad can provide a delightful contrast to the warm, cheesy pasta. For drinks, a nice red wine or sparkling water with lemon can enhance the meal’s richness. Maybe even a light dessert like a fruit sorbet for a refreshing touch afterward!
Top Tips for Perfecting Baked Ziti with Ricotta
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to swap in different cheeses, like Fontina or Gouda for a unique twist!
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for an extra nutritional boost and flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue to cook while baking, ensure it’s al dente before mixing it with the sauce.
- Serving Size: This dish is easily adaptable, so consider halving the recipe for a smaller family or gathering.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the baked ziti for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For best results, cover the dish with foil to avoid drying out.
Get ready to enjoy some delicious comfort food with Baked Ziti with Ricotta. It’s a dish that’s sure to not just fill your stomach but warm your heart as well! Let’s make cooking a joyful experience together. Happy baking!
Baked Ziti with Ricotta
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the marinara sauce and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti, marinara sauce, and the cheese mixture. Stir until everything is well coated.
- Transfer half of the ziti mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer half of the remaining marinara sauce followed by the rest of the ziti mixture, and top with the remaining sauce.
- Sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot!
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