Classic Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Right, let's get cracking on this baked ziti with ricotta , shall we? it's comfort food at its finest, like a warm hug! honestly, who can resist layers of cheesy goodness? i always thought of it like garfield, but with less of a monday feeling and more pasta.

Baked Ziti with Ricotta: A Classic is Born

Fancy a little trip to italy without leaving your kitchen? this classic baked ziti recipe is your ticket. it's a beloved italian american dish, born from the desire for hearty, family style meals.

This is a dish that is often linked to the italian dinner experience.

It's not too tricky to make, promise! we're talking about a medium level effort for maximum taste reward, clocking in at about an hour and fifteen minutes total.

This recipe makes enough to feed a small army, about 8-10 hungry people. it is a great pasta dinner recipe .

Why This Recipe Rocks

Besides being utterly delicious? this baked ziti with ricotta is surprisingly satisfying. it has a good whack of protein, which can fill you up and keep the munchies at bay.

Need an excuse to host a potluck? this dish is always a hit. what makes this baked ziti recipe special is the perfect balance of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella.

There are many ziti recipes available, but this one is a home run.

Grab Your Apron: What You'll Need

Time to gather your goodies for this Baked Pasta Recipes . Here's the shopping list: (Details for the ingredient list are in the prompt)

Now, onto the steps!

Alright, let's dive into making this classic baked ziti recipe , the star of any family get-together. my nan used to whip this up every sunday, like clockwork.

Smelled amazing! a good baked ziti is all about nailing the ingredients, so let's get the lowdown.

Ingredients & Equipment: The Nitty Gritty

So, you want to make some good ziti recipes or baked pasta recipes ? you are at the right place.

This ingredients and equipment list will help you along the way to make the best pasta dinner recipes .

Main Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to make this amazing baked ziti with ricotta .

• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . A good quality one makes a difference.
• Onion: 1 medium , chopped (about 1 cup). You want it finely chopped, no one wants big chunks of onion.
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is best. That's not up for debate.
• Ground Beef: 1 pound (450g) . Look for ground beef that’s not too fatty, or Italian sausage.
• Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce) can (794g) . San Marzano are the gold standard, honestly.
• Tomato Sauce: 1 (15 ounce) can (425g) . This is a great Italian dinner staple.
• Oregano: 1 teaspoon dried . Essential for that classic baked ziti recipe flavor.
• Basil: 1/2 teaspoon dried .
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, if you like a bit of kick).
• Salt & Pepper: 1 teaspoon salt , 1/2 teaspoon black pepper . Adjust to your taste.
• Red Wine: 1/4 cup (60ml) dry red wine (optional). Merlot works a charm, like in my [Salad Pasta] Recipe.
• Tomato Paste: 1 tablespoon (15ml) .

For the ricotta filling:

• Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces (425g) whole milk. This is the secret ingredient to a perfect baked ziti .
• Egg: 1 large , lightly beaten.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (25g) grated. Freshly grated is always better.
• Parsley: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh (optional).

And finally, the Pasta!

• Ziti Pasta: 1 pound (450g) . Make sure it's good quality.
• Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups (225g) shredded. Low moisture mozzarella is best.

Seasoning Notes

Oregano and basil are your base. red pepper flakes for that extra oomph . don't be shy with the salt and pepper; it really brings out the flavors.

A splash of red wine adds depth. if you don't have red wine, a tiny splash of balsamic vinegar in the sauce can work in a pinch.

It's not quite the same, but hey, we improvise, right?

Equipment Needed

Okay, so you don't need fancy gadgets. Just the basics.

• A large pot or Dutch oven.
• A large bowl.
• A 9x13 inch baking dish.
• A colander.
• A wooden spoon or spatula. A good wooden spoon is a kitchen essential, honestly.

That's it! You are ready to cook the most amazing baked ziti recipe . I make my Try to Salad Pasta or some garlic bread to serve with this pasta dinner .

Right, let's get cracking on this classic baked ziti with ricotta , shall we? honestly, it's comfort food at its finest, like a warm hug from your italian nonna! think garfield, but with fewer mondays and more layers of cheesy goodness.

Baked Ziti: The Ultimate Comfort Food

So, you fancy making some proper baked ziti ? awesome! this isn't just some random pasta dinner . this is italian dinner at its finest.

This baked ziti recipe is hearty. this pasta dinner recipe is satisfying. we are talking about perfectly cooked ziti, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and loads of mozzarella.

Oh my gosh! forget your worries and dive in.

Prep Steps for Ziti Perfection

First things first, let's get our mise en place sorted. that's fancy chef talk for having all your ingredients ready.

Chop your onion, mince your garlic, and measure out your spices. trust me, it makes the whole process smoother than a sinatra tune.

This saves you time and reduces the risk of burning something while you're scrambling for that oregano! safety reminder: watch your fingers when chopping.

Now, you're officially ready to go.

step-by-step to Deliciousness

Here's how to turn those ingredients into magic:

1. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil.
2. Brown your ground beef until there is no pink left. Drain any excess grease.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, red wine and tomato paste. Simmer for 20 minutes . Seriously the aroma is fantastic.
4. Cook the ziti pasta until al dente. Make sure that is al dente ! Nobody likes soggy pasta. Drain it well.
5. Combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper in a bowl.
6. Mix cooked ziti with half of the meat sauce. Then layer the ziti in a dish. Top with ricotta filling and the rest of ziti.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella on top. Then bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 25- 30 minutes .

Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Waiting is the hardest part, I know, but it is worth it!

Pro Tips for Amazing Baked Ziti

• Don't overcook the pasta! This is probably the most important thing. Mushy pasta ruins everything.
• Simmer the sauce for longer if you can. This baked ziti recipe tastes better after a while. An hour or two makes it truly awesome.
• Common mistake to avoid: Don’t skip the resting period! Honestly, it makes such a difference.

So, there you have it! a totally delicious classic baked ziti recipe . you can even serve it with salad pasta to make a lighter meal.

It is one of the best ziti recipes . now go forth and conquer the kitchen!

Alright, let's talk about nailing this classic baked ziti recipe . honestly, it's not rocket science, but a few pointers can really take it from good to omg-amazing .

I've made this baked pasta recipe a million times, and i've learned a thing or two.

Recipe Notes for the Perfect Baked Ziti

Serving Up Some Deliciousness

Okay, so you've got your baked ziti hot and bubbly from the oven. now what? presentation is key. first, let it rest! important!: 10 minutes that way, it sets up and you can slice it without it turning into a hot mess.

For plating, think rustic. a simple scoop onto a plate with a sprig of basil is perfetto.

Complementary sides? a simple salad pasta dish is ideal. a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is chef's kiss .

And don’t forget the garlic bread! some italian red wine. ah, bellisima!

Storage Secrets

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This baked ziti with ricotta is even better the next day.

• Refrigeration: Pop it in an airtight container in the fridge. It'll be good for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This freezes like a dream. Wrap individual portions tightly in foil, then toss them in a freezer bag. It will last 3 months .
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through, or microwave for a quick fix.

Variations on a Theme

Want to mix things up? No problem!

• Dietary Adaptations: Go veggie by swapping the meat for mushrooms and zucchini. Boom! Vegetarian Pasta Dinners achieved. For gluten-free, just use gluten-free ziti. Easy peasy.
• Seasonal Swaps: In the summer, add some fresh tomatoes and basil to the sauce. In the fall, roasted butternut squash would be amazing.

Nutrition Know How

Let’s be real, this isn’t exactly health food. but hey, everything in moderation, right? each serving of this baked ziti recipe packs a good punch of protein (30-35g) from the meat and cheese.

You also get some calcium from the ricotta. this recipe could be described as the perfect italian dinner .

Cook's note:

This baked ziti recipe is a true labor of love that's well worth the effort. the pasta dinner recipes are usually a hit.

So, get in that kitchen. experiment and create something special. remember, cooking should be fun and don't be afraid to make mistakes.

If you feel inspired, you can share with me your best ziti recipes !

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make baked ziti with ricotta ahead of time?

Absolutely! Baked ziti is a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.

Just like your favourite Sunday roast, a bit of preparation makes everything less stressful!

How do I prevent my baked ziti with ricotta from being watery?

Nobody wants a soggy bottom! To avoid watery baked ziti, be sure to drain your cooked ziti pasta very well and avoid overcooking it to al dente. Also, ensure your ricotta cheese isn't too wet; you can drain it in a cheesecloth lined sieve for an hour before using.

Letting the meat sauce simmer uncovered for longer helps it thicken up, too. A bit of patience is key!

What's the best way to store leftover baked ziti?

Leftover baked ziti is almost as good as the first time! Allow the ziti to cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2-3 months.

Think of it as a ready meal, just like you'd buy from M&S!

Can I substitute anything for ricotta cheese in this baked ziti with ricotta recipe?

While ricotta provides that classic creamy texture and flavour, you can substitute it if needed. Cottage cheese, drained very well, can be used as a 1:1 substitute, though it will have a slightly different texture. Mascarpone cheese would also work beautifully for an extra rich and decadent version - treat yourself!

What can I add to my baked ziti with ricotta to make it extra flavourful?

Fancy jazzing up your baked ziti? A splash of dry red wine to the sauce adds great depth, and a pinch of red pepper flakes brings a welcome touch of heat, like a cheeky Nando's. Fresh herbs like basil and oregano can also elevate the flavours. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

Is baked ziti with ricotta healthy?

Baked ziti with ricotta is a comfort food, but it can be part of a balanced diet! It provides protein from the meat and cheese, and carbohydrates from the pasta. To make it healthier, consider using lean ground beef or turkey, adding extra vegetables to the sauce, and using part skim ricotta cheese.

It is important to consider portion size as well!