Description
This Baked Ziti with Ricotta & Mozzarella is a classic Italian-American casserole layered with rich marinara, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella. Perfect for feeding a family or prepping ahead, it’s a comforting dish that’s simple to make and always a hit!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add ground meat (if using) and cook until browned. Drain fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, half the sauce, ricotta, and 1 cup mozzarella. Mix well.
- Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour remaining sauce over top and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with basil or parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter version.
- Add spinach or sautéed mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Make ahead and refrigerate or freeze before baking.
Nutrition
- Calories: ~460 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
