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Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ricotta
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Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ricotta is a comforting and hearty pasta dish featuring tender ziti pasta combined with creamy ricotta and a blend of gooey melted cheeses, all baked in a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe delivers a deliciously creamy, cheesy, and savory experience that warms the soul.

Ingredients

Pasta and Cheese

  • Ziti pasta – 1 pound
  • Ricotta cheese – 1 1/2 cups (preferably whole milk)
  • Mozzarella cheese – 2 cups shredded
  • Parmesan cheese – 1 cup freshly grated

Sauce and Aromatics

  • Marinara sauce – 4 cups (fresh or jarred)
  • Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic – 3 cloves, finely chopped
  • Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
  • Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
  • Salt – to taste
  • Black pepper – to taste

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh basil or parsley – chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Start by boiling the ziti pasta in salted water until just al dente to ensure it holds up during baking without becoming mushy. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté finely chopped onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Combine Pasta and Ricotta: In a large mixing bowl, fold together the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and a generous portion of the sauce to create a creamy and rich base for the dish.
  4. Layer and Top: Transfer half of the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over it, then add the remaining pasta mixture on top. Finish with a final layer of mozzarella and Parmesan for a beautiful golden crust.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Bake the assembled dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is bubbly and lightly browned, indicating it’s perfectly cooked.

Notes

  • Use whole milk ricotta cheese for creamier texture and richer flavor.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; it should be slightly firm to avoid sogginess after baking.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best taste and melting quality.
  • Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving so it sets and slices well.
  • Double the sauce quantity to ensure every piece of pasta is well coated and flavorful.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked ziti, cheesy baked pasta, ricotta pasta, comfort food, Italian pasta bake

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/cheesy-baked-ziti-with-ricotta/