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Classic Baked Ziti with Ricotta Cheese

classic baked ziti with ricotta cheese - featured image
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A comforting and easy baked ziti recipe featuring creamy ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and a golden cheesy crust. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ziti pasta
  • 1 ½ cups (375 g) whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 4 cups (960 ml) marinara sauce
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound (450 g) of ziti pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until just al dente. Drain well in a colander and set aside.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Pour in 4 cups (960 ml) marinara sauce, stir, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer gently.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups (375 g) ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt, pepper, and ¼ cup chopped fresh basil or parsley if using.
  6. Add the drained ziti to the skillet with the marinara sauce and toss gently to coat every noodle.
  7. In a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish, spread half of the sauced pasta. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta.
  8. Add another layer of the remaining pasta, followed by the rest of the ricotta. Sprinkle 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella and ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
  9. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden and slightly crispy.
  10. Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta before baking to avoid mushiness. Season the ricotta with herbs and salt for added flavor. If the top browns too fast, tent with foil halfway through baking. You can prepare the casserole ahead and refrigerate or freeze before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked ziti, ricotta cheese, comfort food, easy dinner, pasta bake, Italian recipe

Find it online: https://yumyep.com/classic-baked-ziti-with-ricotta-cheese-easy-homemade-recipe-for-comfort-food/