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Baked Ziti with Ricotta
krista
November 6, 2025
Baked Ziti with Ricotta is a hearty Italian-American dish that layers tender pasta with a luscious mix of ricotta and marinara sauce. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the gooey melted mozzarella and the crispy edges that form during baking, delivering a satisfying experience with every bite. The dish not only warms the soul but also pleases the palate with its comforting flavors and textures.
The secret to mastering Baked Ziti lies in the layering technique, which ensures the pasta absorbs the flavors while remaining perfectly cooked. Using a combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and a robust marinara sauce lifts the dish beyond a simple pasta bake. The ricotta adds a creamy richness that complements the tanginess of the sauce, while the mozzarella brings a deliciously stretchy finish that everyone loves. This approach creates a beautifully cohesive dish that’s both inviting and filling.
For the perfect meal, serve this Baked Ziti with a light side salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. Pair it with a glass of Chianti or a rich Cabernet Sauvignon to elevate the dining experience. For non-alcoholic options, consider a refreshing sparkling lemonade. Additional companions like garlic bread and roasted vegetables make for an even more fulfilling feast.
This dish can easily be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings. Assemble it the day before, cover it well, and simply bake when ready to serve. It’s also a fantastic option for meal prep, as it adheres to the comforting flavors and is a favorite among both adults and kids alike.
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Ingredients:
Adjust Servings
| 1pound ziti pasta | |
| 2cups marinara sauce | |
| 1cup ricotta cheese | |
| 2cups shredded mozzarella cheese | |
| 1/2cup grated Parmesan cheese | |
| 1large egg lightly beaten | |
| 2teaspoons Italian seasoning | |
| 1teaspoon garlic powder | |
| 1teaspoon salt | |
| 1/2teaspoon black pepper | |
| 2tablespoons olive oil for greasing the baking dish |
Directions
1.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the cheese to melt nicely while the pasta cooks perfectly.
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2.
Cook the Ziti
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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3.
Mix Ricotta Filling
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
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4.
Combine with Marinara
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta mixture, and 1 cup of marinara sauce. Stir until the pasta is well coated.
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5.
Layer the Dish
In a greased baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom, then add half of the ziti mixture. Sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella.
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6.
Finish Layering
Spread the remaining ziti mixture over the first layer, then top with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
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7.
Bake the Ziti
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
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8.
Cool and Serve
Allow the baked ziti to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set for easier slicing.
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Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This recipe can be made ahead and baked later; simply cover it and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Feel free to add cooked ground meat or sautéed vegetables to the pasta mixture for added flavor.
For a lighter version, you can use whole wheat ziti and part-skim ricotta and mozzarella.
