Go Back
In the world of comfort food, few dishes evoke warmth and satisfaction quite like baked ziti. This Cheesy Delight Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and textures that come together to create a hearty, fulfilling experience. Known for its creamy, cheesy goodness and robust flavors, baked ziti is a go-to favorite for families, gatherings, and even potlucks. Whether you're hosting a special occasion or simply indulging in a cozy night at home, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella

Dive into the warmth of Cheesy Delight Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella, a comforting dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings. This recipe combines creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella with flavorful layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and spices to create a satisfying meal. Discover the essential ingredients and step-by-step instructions to master this classic Italian-American favorite. Get ready for a delicious culinary experience that will impress your guests and bring everyone back for seconds!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)

2 cups marinara sauce

15 oz ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Make the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Stir in the ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

        Combine Ingredients: Once the meat is cooked, stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

          Mix Cheeses: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

            Assemble the Ziti: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the meat sauce. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the ziti mixture on the bottom. Spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, then layer the remaining ziti on top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the dish.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious baked ziti!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 50 min | 6 servings