If you’re craving a warm, cheesy dish that brings comfort to your dinner table, you’ve come to the right place. This Baked Ziti with Ricotta is not just flavorful; it’s also simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser ready in no time. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and transform your next meal!
Ingredients
To make Baked Ziti with Ricotta, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what to gather:
– 12 oz ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 large egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Each ingredient plays a key role in building flavor. The ziti pasta gives a great texture. The marinara sauce adds moisture and richness. Ricotta cheese makes it creamy and smooth. The mozzarella and Parmesan bring a cheesy goodness that pulls everything together.
Using fresh garlic and herbs like oregano and basil enhances the taste. Don’t skip the egg; it binds the cheeses and adds a nice structure.
I always recommend using fresh basil leaves for garnish. They add a pop of color and a fresh aroma that makes the dish even more inviting.
For the full recipe, check out Cheesy Baked Ziti Delight. It’s a great guide for making this dish come to life!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Cook the ziti pasta until al dente.
– Drain and set aside.
First, you need to preheat your oven. This step gets your oven hot and ready for baking. Next, cook the ziti pasta. I like to boil it in salted water. Cook it until it is al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Mixing Ingredients
– Combine the ricotta cheese and other ingredients.
– Mix the cooked ziti with marinara sauce.
Now, let’s mix the ingredients. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella, 1/4 cup of Parmesan, the egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix this well until it is smooth. In another bowl, mix the cooked ziti with marinara sauce. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated in that rich sauce.
Assembly and Baking
– Layer ingredients in the baking dish.
– Cover and bake, then uncover to finish.
Time to assemble your dish! Start by layering half of the ziti mixture in a greased baking dish. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the ziti. Next, add the rest of the ziti on top, followed by the remaining ricotta. Top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes. Look for bubbly cheese and a golden top.
Make sure to let your baked ziti rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish is a family favorite! For the full recipe, check out Cheesy Baked Ziti Delight.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Ensure pasta is cooked al dente. This gives you the perfect bite.
– Let the dish rest before serving for better slicing. This helps keep the layers together.
Serving Suggestions
– Best served with a side salad or garlic bread. A fresh salad adds crunch.
– Garnish with fresh basil for added flavor. The bright color makes it look great!
Variations
Different twists can make your baked ziti more fun. You can change the pasta or add different flavors.
Ingredient Swaps
– Substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni. Both hold sauce well.
– Use different cheeses like feta or goat cheese. These cheeses add unique tastes.
Protein Additions
– Incorporate cooked sausage or ground beef. These meats add heartiness to the dish.
– Option to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. These veggies bring extra color and nutrients.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas. Experimenting makes cooking more exciting!
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
Store your leftover baked ziti in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing the container. This helps avoid condensation inside.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your baked ziti, you can use an oven or microwave. The oven gives the best results. When reheating, add a splash of marinara sauce. This keeps the dish moist and delicious. Just pour a little on top before heating. Enjoy your ziti just like it was fresh!
FAQs
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese. Both options work well in this dish. Cottage cheese gives a similar texture, while cream cheese adds a rich creaminess. Experiment to see which one you like best.
Can I freeze baked ziti with ricotta?
Yes, you can freeze baked ziti with ricotta. Freeze it before baking for best results. You can also freeze it after baking, but the texture may change a bit. Make sure to store it in a tight container.
How do I know when baked ziti is done?
Look for bubbly cheese and a golden top. This shows the cheese has melted properly. If you see those signs, it’s ready to eat. Use a knife to check if the pasta is warm inside.
How long does baked ziti last in the fridge?
Leftovers can last 3-5 days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you want to save them longer, consider freezing.
What is the full recipe for Baked Ziti with Ricotta?
Users can refer to the Cheesy Baked Ziti Delight recipe above. This recipe gives you all the steps and ingredients you need to make this tasty dish.
Baked ziti is a delightful dish with layers of flavor and comfort. We covered the key ingredients, how to prepare each step, and offered tips to enhance your meal. You can customize this dish with various ingredients, making it your own. Store leftovers well for tasty meals later. Enjoy serving baked ziti with friends and family, and don’t forget to try different variations. It’s an easy and satisfying recipe that will impress anyone at your table.