why make this recipe

Baked Ziti with Ricotta is a wonderful comfort food that brings a taste of Italy to your home. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The combination of creamy ricotta, savory meat sauce, and bubbly cheese creates a delicious meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to make and can feed a crowd, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.

how to make Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Ingredients:

Ziti pasta
Ricotta cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Ground beef or sausage
Marinara sauce
Parmesan cheese
Garlic
Onion
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper
Italian seasoning

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft.
Add ground beef or sausage; cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix cooked ziti with the meat sauce and ricotta cheese.
Spread half of the ziti mixture in a baking dish and top with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
Layer the remaining ziti mixture on top and finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

how to serve Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Serve Baked Ziti with Ricotta hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad and garlic bread. You can also sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for added color and flavor.

how to store Baked Ziti with Ricotta

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap before freezing.

tips to make Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get too soft while baking.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
If you want a little more flavor, try adding some red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.

variation

You can easily swap the ground beef or sausage for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, just omit the meat and add more vegetables or some extra ricotta.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like! Penne or fusilli would work great as well.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.

3. What can I serve with Baked Ziti?
It goes well with a salad, garlic bread, or even a side of roasted vegetables. Enjoy how you like!

Baked Ziti with Ricotta