Baked Ziti Recipe with Ricotta: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic
This baked ziti recipe with ricotta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a comforting and delicious Italian-American classic. This recipe focuses on achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures, ensuring a ziti dish that's both satisfying and memorable. We'll cover everything from ingredient selection to baking tips, ensuring you achieve baked ziti perfection every time.
Ingredients for the Best Baked Ziti with Ricotta
Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for a truly exceptional baked ziti. Here's what you'll need:
- Pasta: 1 pound ziti pasta (or other tubular pasta). Choose a high-quality pasta for the best texture and flavor.
- Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese. Full-fat ricotta adds richness and creaminess.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Adds a sharp, salty counterpoint.
- Tomato Sauce: 24 ounces your favorite marinara sauce. Homemade is ideal, but high-quality store-bought works too.
- Eggs: 2 large eggs. Bind the ricotta mixture and add richness.
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves garlic, minced. Adds aromatic depth.
- Onions: 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped. Adds sweetness and savory notes.
- Seasoning: Salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat).
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfectly Baked Ziti
Let's get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your perfect baked ziti:
Step 1: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, Parmesan cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, and half of the chopped onion. Season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
Step 2: Cook the Ziti
Cook the ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Ziti Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches), spread a thin layer of your marinara sauce. Add a layer of the cooked ziti, followed by a generous layer of the ricotta mixture. Repeat the layers (ziti, ricotta, sauce) at least twice, ending with a layer of sauce. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and the remaining chopped onions.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the ziti is heated through. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the ziti to set.
Tips and Variations for Your Baked Ziti
- Meat Lovers' Ziti: Add cooked sausage, ground beef, or meatballs to the sauce layer for a heartier dish.
- Vegetable Ziti: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the ricotta mixture or sauce layers.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture or sauce for a little heat.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions for Your Delicious Baked Ziti
Serve your baked ziti hot, accompanied by a simple side salad and crusty bread for dipping. A side of garlic bread is always a welcome addition.
This baked ziti recipe is a keeper! With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
