baked ziti with ricotta recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
baked ziti with ricotta recipe
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The Best baked ziti with ricotta recipe

I love baked ziti with ricotta recipe, it’s a classic dish that never fails to impress my family and friends.

The origins of this recipe are Italian, where it’s known as

Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Baked Ziti with Ricotta

4.5 from 1647 votes

A comforting Italian dish featuring ziti pasta baked with a creamy ricotta mixture and rich tomato sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 550 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Ziti

1 lb ziti pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt

For the Tomato Sauce

2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

For the Ricotta Mixture

1 lb ricotta cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp nutmeg

For the Topping

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2Add ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain and set aside.
4Preheat oven to 375°F.
5In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
6Add garlic and onion, sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
7Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
8Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
9In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan cheese, eggs, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
10Mix well until smooth.
11In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom.
12Arrange half of the cooked ziti pasta over the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture.
13Repeat with the remaining pasta and ricotta mixture.
14Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top, spreading it evenly.
15Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
16Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
17Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
18Let the baked ziti rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
19This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to serve.
20Serve hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Mixing bowl
9×13 inch baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 550 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tip: For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce. You can also add cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the ricotta mixture for extra nutrients.

Watch Video Of How Baked Ziti with Ricotta Works

Baked ziti with ricotta is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make and feeds a crowd.

One tip is to let everyone serve themselves from the casserole dish – it makes mealtime more interactive and fun. This recipe is perfect for potlucks or take-along dinners because it’s easy to transport and serves a crowd.

Plus, it reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Q: What type of pasta should I use for baked ziti?

I recommend using ziti or penne pasta for this recipe, as they have a ridged texture that holds onto the sauce well. You can also use other types of pasta if you prefer, but keep in mind that they may not hold up as well.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ricotta mixture and assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it.

Q: Do I need to use low-fat ricotta cheese?

No, you can use full-fat ricotta cheese if you prefer a richer flavor. However, keep in mind that it will increase the calorie count of the dish.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add your favorite ingredients such as ground beef or sausage, spinach, or other vegetables to make it more substantial.

Q: How do I store leftover baked ziti?

You can store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly.

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