Classic Baked Ziti with Creamy Ricotta

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Remember those sunday dinners at grandma's? this baked ziti with ricotta recipe brings back all those warm, fuzzy feelings. it's the kind of dish that just screams comfort, with its creamy, cheesy goodness.

Brief Overview

Baked ziti? it's basically the italian-american classic. originating from humble beginnings, it’s evolved into a staple at potlucks and family gatherings.

This recipe's pretty straightforward. it's a medium difficulty, takes about an hour and ten minutes overall, and feeds around 6-8 hungry people.

Trust me, even if you’re not nonna in the kitchen, you've got this.

Main Benefits

Honestly, besides tasting amazing, this easy baked ziti with ricotta also packs a punch of protein from the beef, ricotta, and mozzarella.

It's the perfect dish to serve at a casual get-together or a cosy family night. what makes it special? it's the combination of simple ingredients that create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Plus, who doesn’t love a bubbly, cheesy pasta bake?

Classic Baked Ziti with Creamy Ricotta Recipe Card

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Preparation time:30 Mins

Cooking time:40 Mins

Servings:6-8 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup) (150g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 teaspoon) (5g)
• 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage) (450g)
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (794g)
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce (425g)
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste (170g)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish (6g)
• 1 pound ziti pasta (450g)
• Salt, for pasta water
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese, whole milk (425g)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (25g)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (about 8 ounces) (225g)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (25g)

Instructions:

• Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add ground beef (or sausage) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
• Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in fresh basil.
• In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti with about half of the tomato sauce. Toss to coat.
• Spread a thin layer of the remaining tomato sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Top with half of the ziti mixture, then spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the ziti. Top with the remaining ziti mixture.
• Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
• Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
• Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:550-650

Fat:25-35g

Fiber:3-5g

Recipe Info

Category:Main Course

Cuisine:Italian

Time to Gather 'Round!

So, you wanna make this magic happen? good. here's what you'll need. first, for the sauce , grab some olive oil, an onion, garlic, a pound of ground beef, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and fresh basil.

Next, for the ziti , you'll need a pound of ziti pasta. oh, and salt, obviously. don’t forget to make the ricotta filling that include ricotta cheese, one egg, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

And for the topping , mozzarella cheese and some more parmesan. easy peasy!

Ready to Roll?

Seriously, though, this recipe’s a winner. it’s guaranteed to make your kitchen smell amazing, and your friends and family will thank you.

What's more is the best baked ziti recipe could be easily adjust to any other of your favorite ingredients.

Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to make the best baked ziti with ricotta ever. Trust me, this ain't your average pasta bake. It's proper comfort food.

Ingredients & Equipment: The Foundation of Flavor

Think of this as your shopping list and your toolkit. Get these right, and you're already halfway to a delicious baked ziti. Honestly, a good baked ziti recipe starts with good ingredients.

Main Ingredients: Quality Counts, Mate!

Here's what you'll need. Measurements are both US and metric, so no excuses.

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml). Quality indicator: Go for extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Trust me on this one.
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium , finely chopped (about 1 cup or 150g).
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced (about 1 teaspoon or 5g).
• Ground Beef (or Italian Sausage): 1 pound (450g). Quality indicator: Look for ground beef with a decent amount of fat (around 80/20) for flavour.
• Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce) can (794g).
• Tomato Sauce: 1 (15 ounce) can (425g).
• Tomato Paste: 1 (6 ounce) can (170g).
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon .
• Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon .
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon .
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon .
• Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup , chopped, plus more for garnish (6g).
• Ziti Pasta: 1 pound (450g).
• Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces , whole milk (425g). Quality indicator: Whole milk ricotta gives the best creamy texture. Don't skimp on this!
• Egg: 1 large , lightly beaten.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup , grated (25g).
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon .
• Black Pepper: 1/8 teaspoon .
• Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups , shredded (about 8 ounces or 225g).
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup , grated (25g).

Seasoning Notes: Spice Up Your Life!

Here are some key things to remember about seasoning, to create that Italian dinner experience.

• Essential Spice Combo: Oregano and basil are a must for that classic Italian flavor.
• Flavor Enhancers: Don't underestimate the power of fresh basil at the end! It brightens everything up. I always add a bit extra.
• Quick Subs: No fresh basil? A pinch more dried basil will do in a pinch, but fresh is best.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid!

You don't need fancy gear for a good baked pasta recipe .

• Large Pot: For boiling pasta. Any large pot will do, innit?
• Large Skillet: Or Dutch oven. This is for the sauce.
• 9x13 Inch Baking Dish: Essential for baking.
• Mixing Bowls: For mixing ricotta and assembling the creamy baked ziti .

Right then, with these ingredients and tools, you're all set to create a classic italian pasta bake that will make you the star of the show.

Honestly, making this homemade baked ziti recipe is easier than you think. let's get cooking! and remember if you’re ever wondering what should i cook for dinner tonight , ziti recipes are always a great choice!

Alright, let's talk baked ziti with ricotta . this isn't just any pasta bake. it's like nonna gave you a hug in the form of a casserole.

Honestly, who doesn't love a good classic italian pasta bake ? this recipe is easy baked ziti with ricotta , but with a touch of amore .

Cooking Method: Baked Ziti Bliss

You know, i remember the first time i tried making this. disaster! the pasta was mushy, the cheese was burnt.

But hey, we live and learn. now, let's get you prepped for success, avoiding my past fails.

Prep Steps: Mise en Place , Darling!

First, essential mise en place . that's fancy talk for getting your ducks in a row. chop your 1 medium yellow onion (about 1 cup) and mince those 2 cloves of garlic (about 1 teaspoon).

Grate 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese . get that ricotta ready too; 15 ounces of whole milk ricotta cheese .

This creamy baked ziti starts with good ingredients. remember, it takes about 30 minutes to prep.

For time-saving, i chop my onions and garlic ahead. i can be cooking for longer so, it saves you time.

Honestly, pre-grated cheese is fine, but freshly grated always tastes better. i mean, you know?

Safety reminder! Be careful when handling hot pans. Use oven mitts, please. A burn isn't worth a homemade baked ziti recipe .

Step-by-Step Process: Ziti Zen

1. Cook 1 pound ziti pasta until al dente. It should be firm to the bite. Drain it!
2. Sauté the onion and garlic in 2 tablespoons olive oil until softened. Add 1 pound ground beef and cook until browned. Drain the fat.
3. Stir in 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes , 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce , 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste , 1 teaspoon dried oregano , 1 teaspoon dried basil , 1/2 teaspoon salt , 1/4 teaspoon black pepper , and 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil . Simmer for 15 minutes .
4. Mix ricotta with 1 large egg , 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese , 1/4 teaspoon salt , and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper .
5. Combine cooked ziti with half the sauce.
6. Layer sauce, ziti, ricotta, then more ziti in a 9x13 inch baking dish .
7. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
8. Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 30- 40 minutes , until bubbly and golden. Let rest 10 minutes before serving. You want that cheese golden brown !

Pro Tips: Secret Nonna Tricks

My biggest tip? Don't overcook the pasta. Al dente is key. Mushy pasta is a crime against Italian dinner . Also, let the sauce simmer. It develops the flavors.

Common mistake: Overbaking. Watch that cheese! It can burn easily. If it's browning too fast, tent the dish with foil.

Make-ahead option: assemble the ziti ahead of time. cover and refrigerate. bake when ready. just add 10- 15 minutes to the baking time.

This baked pasta recipes is perfect for a party.

Alright, so you've just whipped up this incredible classic italian pasta bake with my baked ziti with ricotta recipe. seriously, good on ya! but before you dive headfirst (trust me, i get the temptation), let’s talk about a few extra bits and bobs to make this baked ziti recipe sing even louder.

Recipe Notes: Let's Get Real

Think of these less as rules and more as friendly nudges. You know? Like when your Nonna gives you that look, telling you to add a little more cheese.

Presentation is Key (Kinda)

Honestly, even a messy plate of creamy baked ziti is gonna taste amazing. but if you wanna be fancy, sprinkle some fresh basil on top.

Or, you know, serve it straight from the 9x13 inch baking dish . no judgment here.

What Goes With It?

Complementary sides or beverages . garlic bread is a must. fact. a simple salad cuts through the richness. honestly, a good glass of chianti or any dry red wine turns this into a full-blown italian dinner experience.

Leftovers? No Problem!

Storage tips : fridge is your friend. it'll keep happy for about 3-4 days. for long-term survival, freezing's the game.

Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. when you're ready, thaw it out overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until bubbly.

Switching Things Up

Variations: feel free to use whole wheat ziti recipes if you want to be healthier, or add more veg. this is your moment!.

If you are more vegetarian, toss in sauteed mushrooms and peppers. switch out the ground beef for sausage. honestly, get creative!

Seasonal ingredient swaps : In the summer, toss in some fresh tomatoes from your garden!

A Little Nutrition (Because We Care)

Okay, so this best baked ziti recipe isn't exactly health food. but hey, everything in moderation, right? each serving has around 550-650 calories, with a good dose of protein and carbs.

Think of it as fuel for all those sunday afternoon naps.

Final Thoughts

Making a homemade easy baked ziti with ricotta is an act of love. it's about bringing people together. don't stress if it's not perfect the first time.

Just have fun, and enjoy the deliciousness!