Baked Ziti with Ricotta is one of those dishes that evokes warmth and comfort. This hearty, bubbling dish combines creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and rich marinara sauce, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to please everyone around the table. Let’s dive into the deliciousness of this Italian classic!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti with Ricotta

This Baked Ziti with Ricotta is not just any pasta dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

• Easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Comforting and creamy, satisfying any craving.
• Flexible recipe to accommodate dietary preferences, including Vegetarian Baked Ziti with Ricotta.
• Great for meal prep, saving you time on busy days.
• Can be customized with different ingredients like Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Spinach or Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Meat.
• Ideal for feeding a crowd, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or parties.

Ingredients for Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Gather these items:

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 4 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Baked Ziti with Ricotta Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the ziti pasta, and cook until just under al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Step 4: Add the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the skillet, allowing it to simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Step 5: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, salt, pepper, and half of the parmesan, mixing until smooth.
6. Step 6: Mix the drained pasta into the marinara sauce until well-coated.
7. Step 7: In a greased baking dish, layer the pasta mixture, dollops of ricotta, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with sauce and remaining mozzarella on top.
8. Step 8: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
9. Step 9: Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Keep these in mind:

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be firm since it will continue cooking in the oven.
• For a twist, try adding spinach or sausage to your Baked Ziti with Ricotta.
• Let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking to set up, making it easier to serve.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Serving your Baked Ziti with Ricotta is just as important as making it. Here are some ideas:

• Pair it with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve alongside garlic bread for an extra delicious touch.
• Top with fresh basil or parsley for added color and flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Ziti with Ricotta

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Baked Ziti with Ricotta can be stored for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven until heated through. This dish is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Ziti with Ricotta

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Ziti with Ricotta?

The secret lies in using quality ingredients and ensuring your pasta is cooked al dente before baking. Adding a variety of cheeses enhances the creamy texture, making it a standout dish.

Can I make Baked Ziti with Ricotta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the Baked Ziti with Ricotta ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Ziti with Ricotta?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the pasta and use enough sauce to keep the dish moist. Layering properly will also help with even cooking and flavor distribution.

Variations of Baked Ziti with Ricotta You Can Try

Get creative with your Baked Ziti with Ricotta by trying these variations:

• Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Marinara for a classic taste.
• Creamy Baked Ziti with Ricotta by adding cream cheese for extra richness.
• Healthy Baked Ziti with Ricotta Recipe using whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese.
• One-Pot Baked Ziti with Ricotta for easy cleanup.

Baked Ziti with Ricotta: 7 Irresistible Comfort Food Recipes

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A hearty, bubbling dish of Baked Ziti with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and rich marinara sauce for the perfect comfort food.

• Author: Robert
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 4 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the ziti pasta, and cook until just under al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the skillet, allowing it to simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, salt, pepper, and half of the parmesan, mixing until smooth.
6. Mix the drained pasta into the marinara sauce until well-coated.
7. In a greased baking dish, layer the pasta mixture, dollops of ricotta, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with sauce and remaining mozzarella on top.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
9. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 40mg