I’m absolutely thrilled to share one of my all-time favorite comfort food recipes with you: Baked Ziti with Ricotta! This dish holds a special place in my heart, not just because it’s bursting with cheesy goodness, but also because it reminds me of cozy family gatherings around the dinner table. Growing up, my mom would whip up a giant dish of Baked Ziti whenever we had family over, and the aroma would fill the entire house. Let’s just say, it didn’t take long for everyone to dive in!
What makes this recipe unique is the creamy, dreamy layer of ricotta mixed in with the pasta, which creates a delightful contrast with the rich marinara sauce. Plus, it’s super easy to throw together! Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight meal or entertaining friends, Baked Ziti with Ricotta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, let’s get cooking!
What’s in Baked Ziti with Ricotta?
Ziti Pasta: This tubular pasta is what makes the dish traditional so feel free to use any other short pasta, like penne, as a substitute. I always opt for a whole grain variety to add a little nutrition!
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese is the star of the show. It adds a rich texture and a delicate flavor to the dish. When I can, I like to use whole milk ricotta for that extra creaminess, but part-skim works well too.
Marinara Sauce: You can never go wrong with a good marinara. I tend to use store-bought for convenience, but homemade is always a hit! Just be sure to pick one that’s a bit chunky for that authentic Italian vibe.
Shredded Mozzarella: Who can resist melted cheese? I usually go for a blend of low-moisture mozzarella for that perfect gooey factor. It’s the cheese pull we all dream about!
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan adds that salty, nutty flavor. Grated or shredded works fine, and I’m a fan of the freshly grated kind for the best taste.
Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs adds depth to the dish. Feel free to make your own or grab a pre-mixed jar; just a teaspoon or two does the trick!
Is Baked Ziti with Ricotta Good for You?
You might be wondering if this scrumptious Baked Ziti is nutritious. Let’s break it down:
Whole Grain Pasta: Using whole grain ziti boosts the fiber content and makes it a more filling option. Plus, it can help with digestion!
Ricotta Cheese: This cheese is not only creamy and delicious but also rich in protein and calcium. However, it’s important to be mindful of the serving size, especially for those watching their fat intake.
Vegetables: You can enhance the health factor by tossing in some veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. The more colorful your dish, the better!
Just a heads up, though—while this dish is comfort food at its finest, it can be a bit heavy, especially with all that cheese. Moderation is key and serving it with a side salad can help balance things out.
Ingredients List
– 1 pound ziti pasta (or any short pasta)
– 15 ounces 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 (optional)
*Serves about 6-8 hungry folks!*
How to Make Baked Ziti with Ricotta?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, mix half of the marinara sauce with the cooked pasta. Combine thoroughly so each piece of pasta is coated.
5. Spoon half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, followed by half of the mozzarella and half of the remaining marinara sauce.
6. Top with the remaining pasta, the rest of the ricotta mixture, and finish off with the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired!
Cheesy Tips & Variations!
– You can sneak in some vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
– If you want a bit of spice, toss in some red pepper flakes or Italian sausage into your marinara sauce!
– For a crispy top, broil the dish for an additional couple of minutes after baking.
– This dish makes for fantastic leftovers, so feel free to double the recipe!
I can hardly contain my excitement for you to try this Baked Ziti with Ricotta! It’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion and always brings a smile to my face, not to mention the delightful satisfaction of digging into a cheesy bowl. I’d love to hear how your version turns out, so don’t forget to share your experience. Happy cooking!