Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella: 5 Joyful Reasons

There’s something just so cozy about a plate of Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella that instantly warms my heart. Picture this: you come home after a long day, the aroma of bubbling cheese and rich marinara fills the air, and you know a delicious family dinner is just moments away. This dish has become a staple in our household, and honestly, it’s not hard to see why! It’s cheesy, hearty, and perfect for satisfying everyone at the table—kids and adults alike! Every time I make it, I’m reminded of the laughter and stories shared over a comforting meal, making it a cherished family favorite. Plus, the best part? It comes together so quickly! Trust me, once you pop it in the oven, you’ll have just enough time to catch up with the family before it’s ready. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a go-to for your weeknight dinners, too!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this amazing Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ziti pasta: This is the star of the dish, providing that perfect chewy texture.
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese: Creamy and rich, it adds a luscious layer to the ziti.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Use freshly shredded for that melty goodness! It’s what makes the top so irresistible.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this adds a wonderful salty punch.
• 1 large egg: This helps bind everything together, giving it a lovely structure.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough to add a little kick!
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: A classic Italian herb that adds depth.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Another must-have for that authentic Italian flavor.
• 24 ounces marinara sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade—either way, it’s the delicious base!

With these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to creating a delicious meal that your family will love!

How to Prepare Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s get cooking! Making this Easy Baked Ziti is a straightforward process, and I promise the results are oh-so-rewarding. Here’s how to bring it all together:

1. Preheat your oven: First things first, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to pop in your ziti.
2. Cook the ziti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want it just firm enough to hold its shape after baking. Once done, drain it well—no need to rinse, as you want that starchy goodness to help the sauce stick!
3. Mix the ricotta filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano. I like to use a fork to mix it all together until smooth—this ensures every scoop is cheesy and flavorful.
4. Combine ziti and marinara: In another bowl, take your drained ziti and mix it with the marinara sauce. Make sure every piece of pasta gets a good coating, which keeps it moist and flavorful.
5. Layer it up: Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish (or something similar) and start layering! Begin with half of the ziti mixture at the bottom of the dish. Spread it out evenly, then dollop and spread the ricotta mixture over the top. It’s okay if it doesn’t cover every inch—those little pockets of cheese are so delightful!
6. Add the rest of the ziti: Now, add the remaining ziti on top of the ricotta layer. Make sure it’s spread evenly again. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella over the top. This is what creates that gorgeous, melty crust!
7. Bake it: Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. Trust me, the smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!
8. Let it rest: Once out of the oven, let your baked ziti rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This little wait helps everything set up nicely, making it easier to slice and serve.

And there you have it! A comforting, cheesy dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. Just remember, it’s all about layering and letting those flavors meld together. You’re going to love how simple and satisfying this Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella is!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella is bound to win over your heart (and your taste buds)! Here are a few reasons why it’s become a favorite in my home:

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have this delicious meal ready to pop in the oven in no time!
• Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of cheesy goodness and pasta makes it a filling dish that keeps everyone happy.
• Family-Friendly: Kids adore it, and it’s an easy way to get everyone around the dinner table for some quality family time.
• Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins, making it a great base for creativity!
• Leftover Magic: It tastes just as amazing the next day, making for perfect leftovers that you’ll look forward to!

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this dish becomes a go-to in every household!

Tips for Success

To make your Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella truly shine, here are some pro tips that I swear by!

• Don’t overcook the ziti: Since the pasta continues to cook in the oven, make sure you cook it just to al dente. This way, it won’t turn mushy after baking!
• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh mozzarella and homemade marinara sauce. The flavor boost is incredible and really elevates the dish!
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to tweak the herbs! Fresh basil or parsley can add a nice touch if you have them on hand. Just chop them up and mix them in with the ricotta.
• Make it your own: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even cooked ground beef or sausage to the ziti mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• Cover with foil: If you notice the top browning too quickly while baking, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes. This helps prevent burning while still letting it cook through.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Variations

If you’re looking to shake things up with your Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella, you’re in luck! This dish is incredibly versatile, and there are so many fun ways to customize it to suit your tastes. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Cheese Swap: While ricotta and mozzarella are classic, you can experiment with other cheeses! Try adding creamy goat cheese for a tangy twist or substituting half the mozzarella with provolone for a delicious flavor change.
• Veggie Boost: Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just cook them lightly before mixing them with the ziti so they don’t release too much moisture while baking.
• Protein Power: For meat lovers, adding cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken can make this dish even heartier. Just brown the meat first and mix it in with the marinara sauce!
• Spice it Up: If you love a bit of heat, try mixing in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the marinara sauce for a spicy kick that’ll wake up your taste buds!
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile dramatically. Try adding fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for a burst of freshness!

These variations not only keep things exciting but also let you put your own personal spin on this beloved dish. So go ahead, get creative, and make this Easy Baked Ziti truly your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers of your Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella is super simple, and you’ll be glad to have this comforting dish waiting for you later! Once it’s cooled down, transfer any uneaten ziti to an airtight container. If you’ve got a lot of leftovers, you can even portion them out into smaller containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

When you’re ready to enjoy your ziti again, reheating it is a breeze. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the ziti in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent drying out and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave it! Just pop a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring in between. Either way, you’ll still get that cheesy goodness that makes this dish so delightful!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella, it’s great to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s a rough estimate of the typical nutritional values per serving (1/6 of the recipe):

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

These values can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose, but this should give you a good idea of what to expect. Enjoy this hearty dish with confidence, knowing it’s not just delicious but also packed with nutrients!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making your Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella? No worries! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with my trusty answers:

• Can I make this baked ziti ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’ll be cold from the fridge.
• What if I don’t have ricotta cheese? If you’re in a pinch, cottage cheese works as a great substitute! Just blend it a bit for a smoother texture. It won’t have the same rich flavor, but it’ll still give you that creamy layer you’re looking for.
• Can I freeze leftovers? Yes! Once cooled, you can freeze your baked ziti in an airtight container for up to three months. Just make sure to label it with the date. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, or bake from frozen with extra time.
• How can I make this dish gluten-free? Simply swap out the ziti pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great alternatives that hold up well in baked dishes!
• What should I serve with baked ziti? A fresh green salad and some garlic bread pair perfectly with this dish! They add a nice balance and complete the meal beautifully.

I hope these answers help you feel more confident in making this delightful Easy Baked Ziti!

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal with Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella even more delightful, consider pairing it with a few tasty sides! Here are some of my favorite suggestions:

• Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up that delicious marinara sauce!
• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy ziti. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor!
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide a nutritious side that complements the hearty pasta. Plus, they add a pop of color to your plate!
• Antipasto Platter: Set out a small platter with olives, cured meats, and assorted cheeses for a fun appetizer to get everyone in the mood for Italian night.

These sides not only enhance your meal but also create a lovely dining experience that everyone will enjoy. Happy eating!

Print