why make this recipe
Baked Ziti with Ricotta is a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It combines pasta, cheese, and rich tomato sauce for a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare. This recipe is not just tasty but also flexible, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or proteins. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish makes a satisfying choice.
how to make Baked Ziti with Ricotta
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium zucchini, chopped
- 16 ounces spinach
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (ground)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped zucchini and cook for another 5 minutes. Add the spinach and let it wilt.
- Next, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the tomato mixture and ricotta cheese. Make sure everything is well mixed.
- Transfer half of the ziti mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese on top. Add the remaining ziti mixture and finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
how to serve Baked Ziti with Ricotta
Serve Baked Ziti with Ricotta hot from the oven. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, on top for extra flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store Baked Ziti with Ricotta
To store leftover Baked Ziti, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—up to 3 months. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.
tips to make Baked Ziti with Ricotta
- For a creamier texture, add a bit more ricotta cheese.
- Feel free to add cooked ground meat, like beef or sausage, for extra protein.
- To make it spicier, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- If you prefer vegetables, try adding bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
variation
You can customize this Baked Ziti recipe by using different types of pasta, like penne or fusilli. If you’re looking for a healthier version, substitute whole wheat pasta and add more vegetables. For a vegan option, use dairy-free cheese and ricotta.
FAQs
Can I make Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze Baked Ziti?
Absolutely! It freezes well. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container. Bake it straight from the freezer or defrost in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
How do I know when the Baked Ziti is done?
The dish is done when the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. A fork should easily cut through the pasta.
Baked Ziti with Ricotta
Ingredients
Pasta & Cheese
- 16 ounces ziti pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
Vegetables & Sauces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium zucchini, chopped
- 16 ounces spinach
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (ground)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped zucchini and cook for another 5 minutes. Add the spinach and let it wilt.
Cooking
- Next, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the tomato mixture and ricotta cheese. Make sure everything is well mixed.
- Transfer half of the ziti mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese on top. Add the remaining ziti mixture and finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.