July 31, 2025
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Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ziti pasta
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 lb Italian sausage or ground beef (optional for meat version)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. If using meat, add sausage or ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
  5. Stir in marinara sauce, dried basil, and oregano. Let simmer for 5-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan. Mix well.
  7. In the prepared baking dish, layer half the cooked ziti, half the sauce mixture, and dollops of ricotta. Sprinkle with mozzarella.
  8. Repeat layers with remaining pasta, sauce, ricotta, and top with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.
  9. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  10. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
  • Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead freezer meals.

Why This Easy Recipe Works

Baked Ziti with Ricotta is a classic Italian-American comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. With simple layers of pasta, sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s one of the best easy recipes for a hearty weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish at gatherings.

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