This Baked Ziti with Ricotta is a comforting, oven-baked pasta dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or family gathering. With layers of tender ziti pasta, smooth ricotta cheese, and savory tomato sauce, it’s an easy meal that delivers rich flavors and creamy textures.
Topped with generous amounts of melted mozzarella and grated Parmesan, this pasta bake is finished with a touch of fresh basil and baked until hot and bubbly. It’s a delightful comfort food that everyone will love.
Overview of Baked Ziti with Ricotta
Baked Ziti with Ricotta is a classic dish that embodies comfort food at its finest. This pasta bake combines layers of tender ziti pasta, creamy ricotta cheese, and rich tomato sauce, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or family gathering.
With its golden, bubbly top and generous amounts of melted mozzarella, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. The addition of fresh basil adds a touch of brightness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Ingredients for a Perfect Pasta Bake
To create a delicious Baked Ziti, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Start with ziti pasta, which serves as the foundation of the dish. Ricotta cheese brings creaminess, while marinara sauce provides that essential tomato flavor.
Don’t forget the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for that gooey, cheesy topping. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper will elevate the flavors, while fresh basil adds a lovely garnish.
Preparation Steps Made Simple
Preparing Baked Ziti is straightforward and can be done in about 50 minutes. Begin by cooking the ziti pasta until it reaches an al dente texture. While the pasta cooks, mix the ricotta cheese with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful filling.
Once the pasta is ready, combine it with the ricotta mixture and a portion of the marinara sauce. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Layering the dish is the next step, where you alternate between pasta, sauce, and cheese.
Baking to Perfection
After assembling the layers, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven. Baking for 25 minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Removing the foil for the last 15 minutes lets the cheese bubble and turn golden brown, creating an irresistible crust.
Once baked, let the dish cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil. This final touch not only enhances the presentation but also adds a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and sauce.
Serving Suggestions for Family Dinners
Baked Ziti with Ricotta is perfect for family dinners, especially when served alongside garlic bread. The crunchy texture of the bread pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta, making each bite a delightful experience.
Consider pairing this dish with a simple green salad for a balanced meal. The freshness of the salad contrasts nicely with the hearty pasta, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Why This Dish is a Family Favorite
This Baked Ziti recipe stands out as a go-to option for many families. Its ease of preparation makes it suitable for busy weeknights, while its comforting flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this pasta bake is sure to be a hit. With its layers of flavor and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish that brings everyone together around the table.
Easy Baked Ziti Recipe
This Baked Ziti features layers of ziti pasta mixed with ricotta cheese and marinara sauce, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan. The recipe takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of marinara sauce and the cooked ziti until well combined.
- Layer the Dish: In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the ziti mixture, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti mixture and top with the remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g