Print

Comforting Baked Ziti Recipe with Creamy Ricotta and Mozzarella Perfect for Family Dinners

baked ziti recipe - featured image
Print Recipe

A warm, cheesy baked ziti featuring creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella, perfect for cozy family dinners and crowd-pleasing meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) ziti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 28 ounces (800 grams) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 15 ounces (425 grams) ricotta cheese (small-curd preferred)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (200 grams, whole milk preferred)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 grams)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) of ziti pasta and cook until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in 28 oz (800 g) crushed tomatoes and 2 tablespoons tomato paste. Season with 1 teaspoon dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Let simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If desired, add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine 15 oz (425 g) ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan, and chopped fresh basil (about 1/4 cup). Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  6. In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the tomato sauce until well coated.
  7. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the sauced pasta evenly. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta in spoonfuls, then sprinkle with 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella. Repeat with the remaining pasta, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella.
  8. Finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
  9. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown on top.
  10. Let the baked ziti cool for about 10 minutes before serving to set and meld flavors.

Notes

If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil halfway through baking. Do not overcook pasta; it should be al dente before baking. Let baked ziti rest 10 minutes before serving for best texture. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free, use vegan ricotta and mozzarella alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked ziti, ricotta, mozzarella, pasta bake, family dinner, comfort food, easy recipe, cheesy pasta

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/comforting-baked-ziti-recipe-with-creamy-ricotta-and-mozzarella-perfect-for-family-dinners/