Baked Ziti Recipes with Ricotta: A Comprehensive Guide to a Classic Comfort Dish
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort food that is loved by many for its hearty and delicious flavors. It’s a perfect dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy weeknight dinner.
One of the key ingredients that elevate baked ziti is ricotta cheese, which adds creaminess and a rich texture. If you’re looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal, here’s a detailed guide to making a mouthwatering baked ziti with ricotta.
What is Baked Ziti?
Baked ziti is a pasta dish made with ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and often Parmesan cheese. The pasta is baked in a casserole dish, making it a comforting and filling meal.
While there are many variations, ricotta cheese is a staple ingredient in most baked ziti recipes, as it provides a creamy texture and a subtle, tangy flavor that complements the sauce and pasta.
Ingredients for Baked Ziti with Ricotta
To make a classic baked ziti with ricotta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ziti Pasta: Ziti are tube-shaped pasta, perfect for holding sauce and cheese. Penne can also be used as a substitute.
- Ricotta Cheese: The star ingredient for that creamy, smooth texture.
- Marinara Sauce: A good quality tomato-based marinara sauce is essential for depth of flavor. You can also make your own from scratch for a more personalized touch.
- Mozzarella Cheese: For that stretchy, melty cheese layer on top.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to complement the other cheeses.
- Ground Meat (Optional): Many recipes include ground beef, sausage, or turkey to add extra protein. If you prefer a vegetarian version, feel free to skip this.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh or dried basil, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes can be added to enhance the flavor of the sauce.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the garlic and any additional ingredients like meat or vegetables.
- Egg (Optional): Some recipes call for an egg to bind the ricotta and give it a firmer consistency.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Ziti with Ricotta
Step 1: Cook the Ziti Pasta
- Start by cooking the ziti pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Be sure not to overcook the pasta since it will bake in the oven, and you don’t want it to become too soft.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a large pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. If you’re using ground meat, cook it until browned and crumbled. Remove any excess fat and set the meat aside.
- In the same pan, sauté finely chopped garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add your marinara sauce (about 4 cups), along with dried basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and any other spices you prefer.
- Stir the sauce, bring it to a simmer, and let it cook for 10 minutes. If you’re using ground meat, return it to the pan and let it simmer with the sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, a cup of mozzarella cheese, half a cup of Parmesan, and a beaten egg (if using).
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper, along with a pinch of fresh or dried basil for added flavor. Stir everything together until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked ziti pasta to the sauce and stir to combine, ensuring that every piece is coated with the rich tomato sauce. If you’re using meat, make sure it’s evenly mixed in.
Step 5: Layer the Ziti
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce mixture at the bottom. Then, layer half of the pasta mixture over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta. Repeat the layering with the remaining pasta and ricotta mixture. Top everything with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake the Ziti
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the ziti at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the baked ziti is done, let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of freshness.
- Serve hot with a side of garlic bread and a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.
Variations and Tips
- Vegetarian Baked Ziti: Skip the ground meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a vegetarian twist.
- Spicy Ziti: Add red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Make it Ahead: Baked ziti is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to allow it to thaw before baking.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, fontina, or gouda to add extra richness and flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 calories (depending on the ingredients)
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
Note: These values can vary based on the specific ingredients used, such as the type of cheese or ground meat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Baked ziti with ricotta is the ultimate comfort food — hearty, cheesy, and satisfying. The creamy ricotta cheese perfectly balances the tangy marinara sauce, while the ziti pasta holds everything together for a filling and flavorful meal. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for your family, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Enjoy the process of making this delicious Italian-American classic, and savor every bite of this cheesy, pasta-filled goodness!
