Baked ziti with ricotta and mozzarella is the ultimate comfort food, bursting with cheesy goodness and rich tomato flavors. cheesy stuffed flank steak Picture a bubbling casserole fresh from the oven, its golden cheese oozing seductively as you serve it up for a crowd. taco stuffed shells recipe. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy mushroom chicken alfredo lasagna recipe.
This dish brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and plates were never empty. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy get-togethers, baked ziti promises an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- It’s simple to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite
- The layering of flavors creates a delightful taste experience
- Visually stunning with its melted cheese topping, it’s sure to impress guests
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive feasts
Everyone around the table couldn’t stop raving about how delicious this baked ziti was; it’s become our go-to recipe for gatherings!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ziti Pasta: Use medium-sized ziti or penne pasta; they hold the sauce beautifully and provide great texture.
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Ricotta Cheese: Look for creamy ricotta; it adds richness and balances the tangy tomato sauce perfectly. rich homemade Bolognese sauce.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for whole-milk mozzarella for that melty stretch we all love.
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Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade sauce; quality matters for that deep tomato flavor.
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Grated Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds a salty kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Fresh Basil: Use fresh basil leaves for a burst of brightness that complements the cheesy goodness.
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Garlic Cloves: Mince fresh garlic for an aromatic flavor that elevates your baked ziti.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil enhances richness and ensures everything bakes nicely without drying out.
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Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget these essentials; they balance flavors beautifully throughout the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your baked ziti cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden top.
Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the ziti until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well but don’t rinse; we want that starchy goodness to help bind everything together.
Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. This step infuses your sauce with aromatic goodness—trust me, it’s worth it!
Mix the Sauces and Cheeses: In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, salt, pepper, and chopped basil. Mix until smooth. It should smell heavenly!
Toss in the Pasta: Add cooked ziti to your cheese mixture and stir gently to coat every piece evenly. The pasta should be swimming in that luscious sauce—no dry noodles here!
Layer & Bake!: Transfer half of your ziti mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and then layer on the rest of your pasta mix. Finish with grated parmesan on top for added flavor before sliding it into your preheated oven.
After about 25-30 minutes, check for bubbly cheese and golden edges! Allow it to cool slightly before serving—if you can resist! Enjoy your delicious baked ziti with ricotta and mozzarella.
This recipe not only fills bellies but warms hearts too!
You Must Know
- Baked Ziti with Ricotta & Mozzarella is a comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings
- The gooey melted cheese and rich marinara sauce create a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen
- It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will adore
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the ziti while preparing your sauce, ensuring everything cooks evenly and efficiently. Once the pasta is al dente, mix it with the sauce and cheeses before baking for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Baked Ziti by adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers, or swapping in ground meat for a heartier dish. guilt-free creamy mashed potatoes Your personal flair will make this classic even better.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that cheesy goodness returns to life.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor; they elevate the entire dish!
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be firm before baking
- Layering cheese on top ensures a golden crust and melty interior
The first time I made Baked Ziti, my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely had time to snap a picture! Their compliments made me realize how special this dish is for sharing moments together.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese in Baked Ziti with Ricotta & Mozzarella?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with provolone or fontina for added flavor.
Is it possible to make Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate before baking when ready to serve.
What can I serve alongside Baked Ziti with Ricotta & Mozzarella?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this cheesy dish for a complete meal.
Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Baked Ziti recipe featuring creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, delivering rich tomato flavors and a melty cheese topping that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Simple to prepare, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that promises to warm hearts and fill bellies with every delicious bite.
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- In a large bowl, mix marinara sauce, ricotta, half of the mozzarella, salt, pepper, and chopped basil until smooth.
- Combine cooked ziti with the sauce mixture, ensuring all pasta is coated.
- Layer half of the ziti mixture in a greased baking dish, top with half of the remaining mozzarella, add the rest of the ziti mixture, and finish with Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
