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Classic Ziti with Ricotta: 1 comforting hug

Classic Baked Ziti with Ricotta
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A classic baked ziti recipe featuring a rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a comforting family meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook ziti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage. Drain off any excess fat.
  4. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  6. Pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  7. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
  9. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the cooked ziti.
  10. Top with half of the ricotta mixture, spreading it evenly.
  11. Spoon half of the meat sauce over the ricotta.
  12. Sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
  13. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, and meat sauce.
  14. Top with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
  15. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
  16. Bake for 20 minutes.
  17. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  18. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add sautéed mushrooms and zucchini to the sauce.
  • You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
  • Ensure the ricotta mixture is well combined for even distribution.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://whiskdaily.com/classic-baked-ziti-ricotta/