Classic Baked Ziti Ricotta Recipe
The Classic Baked Ziti Ricotta Recipe is a true comfort food loved by many families. It is warm, cheesy, filling, and perfect for any day of the week. This recipe is made with soft ziti pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella. The flavors blend beautifully while baking in the oven.
Ingredients
- Ziti pasta
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese shredded
- Parmesan cheese grated
- Tomato pasta sauce
- Olive oil
- Garlic minced
- Onion chopped
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Dried oregano
- Dried basil
These are simple and easy-to-find items. Using fresh and good-quality cheese will improve the final taste.
Instructions
Cook the pasta
- Boil ziti pasta in salted water until just tender. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the sauce
- Heat olive oil in a pan. Add onion and garlic. Cook until soft, then stir in tomato sauce and spices.
Mix ricotta filling
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half mozzarella, and parmesan. Mix gently until smooth and creamy.
Combine pasta and sauce
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce. Stir until every piece is coated evenly with rich tomato sauce.
Layer the dish
- Spread half the pasta in a baking dish. Add ricotta mixture. Top with remaining pasta evenly.
Add cheese topping
- Sprinkle the rest of mozzarella cheese over the top. This will melt and turn golden while baking.
Bake the ziti
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F. Cook until bubbly and lightly browned on top.
Rest before serving
- Remove from oven and rest for ten minutes. This helps the layers set before slicing.
Notes
- Cook pasta slightly firm to avoid mushy texture after baking.
- Add cooked ground beef or sausage for extra protein.
- Use fresh basil for a brighter flavor.
- Try adding spinach or mushrooms for a veggie version.
- Swap ziti with penne if needed.