Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Baked Ziti with Ricotta is one of those comforting dishes that brings people together. Picture this: a hearty pasta casserole layered with rich marinara, creamy ricotta, and bubbling cheeses, all melded together to create a delicious harmony of flavors. It’s a dish that’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy weeknight dinners, or even a potluck where you want to impress. As someone who has savored countless plates of this classic Italian-American dish, I can assure you it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to win hearts (and appetites) alike.

Why You’ll Love Making It

What makes Baked Ziti with Ricotta truly special is its ability to combine simplicity with flavor. It’s quick to whip up and doesn’t require a culinary degree to master—ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned pros. With only a handful of ingredients, this dish is also budget-friendly, making it a smart choice for feeding a family or a group of friends without breaking the bank.

“This baked ziti has become a weekly staple in our household! The kids love it, and it’s so easy to make after a long day.” — A satisfied home cook

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want an easy weeknight meal, this recipe deserves a spot on your table. The combination of al dente ziti pasta, savory ground meat, and a creamy ricotta filling guarantees satisfaction in every bite.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Now, let’s get into how you can bring this delightful dish to life. The process is straightforward, making it feasible even for a busy weekday dinner. With just a few steps, you’ll have a bubbling, cheesy casserole ready to enjoy.

First, gather your ingredients, prepare your cooking space, and get ready for a delightful cooking experience.

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this scrumptious baked ziti:

• 1 lb ziti pasta (cooked al dente)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 24 oz marinara sauce (1 jar)
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded, divided)
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• A few fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Feel free to substitute ground beef with turkey or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian twist!

Cooking Steps

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion for about five minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet, cooking until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour in the marinara sauce, mixing well. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.
5. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked ziti pasta with the meat sauce. Gently fold in the ricotta mixture to coat the pasta evenly.
7. Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella on top.
8. Layer the remaining pasta mixture, finishing with the remaining mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
10. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Perfect Pairings for Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Serving your baked ziti can elevate the experience. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, perhaps dressed with a lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast. Garlic bread is a classic accompaniment, great for sopping up excess sauce. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a creamy polenta for a comforting meal.

Best Way to Store Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Leftovers from your baked ziti? No problem! Allow it to cool completely before storing. Place any leftover ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it’ll last for about 3-5 days. If you want to go the extra mile, you can freeze it. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped for optimal freshness when stored in the freezer. When reheating, cover your dish with foil to prevent the cheese from burning.

Pro Chef Tips

• Always cook your pasta al dente; it will continue to cook as it bakes, absorbing the sauce without becoming mushy.
• Use fresh herbs, like basil, both for garnishing and in your ricotta mixture, to elevate flavor.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, add a handful of spinach or other vegetables to the meat sauce for added nutrition and flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Spinach Ziti: Mix in fresh spinach or ricotta with spinach for extra greens.
• Spicy Sausage Twist: Substitute ground meat with Italian sausage for a bit of heat and robust flavor.
• Herb-infused Ziti: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or oregano in your sauce for a unique touch.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare baked ziti?

Preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, with an additional 40-45 minutes for cooking time.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese is a great substitute, or you can even use cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the seasoning as needed!

Is baked ziti suitable for freezing?

Yes! Baked ziti freezes well. Make sure to cool it completely before placing it in an airtight container or freezer-safe dish.

With this easy-to-follow recipe and tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a memorable dish that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family meal! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Baked Ziti with Ricotta

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• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Optional vegetarian

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Description

A comforting baked ziti casserole layered with rich marinara, creamy ricotta, and bubbling cheeses, perfect for family gatherings and weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ziti pasta (cooked al dente)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 24 oz marinara sauce (1 jar)
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded, divided)
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• A few fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion for about five minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet, cooking until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour in the marinara sauce, mixing well. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.
5. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked ziti pasta with the meat sauce. Gently fold in the ricotta mixture to coat the pasta evenly.
7. Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella on top.
8. Layer the remaining pasta mixture, finishing with the remaining mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
10. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Feel free to substitute ground beef with turkey or a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian twist. Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-5 days or frozen for longer storage.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Baked Ziti, Pasta, Italian, Casserole, Comfort Food, Family Meal