Baked Ziti Recipe with Ricotta

Cozy Baked Ziti Recipe with Ricotta

There’s something magical about the comforting aroma of baked pasta wafting through the house on a chilly evening. Picture this: you gather your loved ones around the dinner table, laughter and chatter filling the air, as a bubbling dish of baked ziti, oozing with rich marinara and gooey cheese, makes its grand entrance. This Baked Ziti Recipe with Ricotta not only warms the soul but creates lasting memories, trapped in the tender, creamy layers of pasta and cheese. If you’re searching for that perfect easy weeknight dinner that everyone will rave about, look no further! This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and provolone creates a sumptuous, cheesy delight that’s hard to resist.
• Quick and Easy: With simple steps, this recipe makes it easy to whip up a satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, everyone loves a hearty pasta dish like this!
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, herbs, or proteins to make this dish uniquely yours.
• Perfect Leftovers: This baked ziti keeps beautifully in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying leftovers for lunch!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Baked Ziti Recipe with Ricotta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 5 cups marinara sauce (about 46 ounces)
• 1 to 2 teaspoons sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 lb dried ziti (or penne pasta)
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated, divided
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese
• 8–12 provolone cheese deli slices

How to Make Baked Ziti Recipe with Ricotta

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and season with salt and pepper; cook for 1 more minute.
3. Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer.
4. Meanwhile, cook the pasta for 1 to 2 minutes less than the package instructions to achieve al dente.
5. In a small bowl, stir together the ricotta cheese, egg, half the Parmesan cheese, and a small pinch of sugar if desired.
6. Drizzle 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish; spread it evenly.
7. Drain the pasta and add half into the prepared baking dish. Spoon half of the sauce over the pasta, gently stirring to coat. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the top, then layer with 4 to 6 slices of provolone and half of the mozzarella.
8. In a large bowl or pasta pot, toss the remaining pasta with the remaining sauce. Spoon it over the first cheese layer; top with the remaining ricotta mixture, provolone, and mozzarella. Ensure any exposed pasta is covered with sauce.
9. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. For a more golden top, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end if desired.

Delicious Variations to Try

• Vegetable Bake: Add a mix of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for a zesty veggie-packed version!
• Meat Lover’s Ziti: Stir in cooked ground beef or turkey into the sauce for a heartier meal.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or oregano mixed into the ricotta for an aromatic twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara for a touch of heat, or swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese for a creamy, spiced flavor.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

• Make-Ahead Advice: You can assemble the ziti ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready for dinner!
• Ingredient Swaps: Swap out ziti for any short pasta, like penne or rigatoni, depending on what you have on hand.
• Perfectly Sliced Cheese: To make slicing provolone easier, warm the cheese slightly in the microwave to soften it.
• Storage: Leftover ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain that delightful cheesy topping!

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 400
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Sugar: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 20g
• Sodium: 600mg

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this ahead?
  Yes! You can prepare it in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake.

• Can I use different ingredients?
  Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables, meats, or even different cheeses based on your preferences.

• How do I store leftovers?
  Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• How long does it last?
  Leftovers are best eaten within 3 to 4 days, but you can freeze baked ziti for up to 3 months.

A Cozy Closing Note

This Baked Ziti Recipe with Ricotta is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and share stories, laughter, and love. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, its warm, cheesy goodness will surely please. Save this recipe to your cozy weeknight dinner board so it’s ready when you need a delicious treat!