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Amazing Baked Ziti with Ricotta: 1 Secret Layer

Baked Ziti with Ricotta
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This Baked Ziti with Ricotta brings a classic, comforting Italian flavor right to your table. Follow these steps to layer the sauce, pasta, and creamy ricotta for a truly heartwarming meal.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the ground meat (if using) and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain off excess fat.
  5. Stir in the garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 15 minutes.
  6. In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese until combined.
  7. To assemble, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  8. Place half of the cooked ziti over the sauce.
  9. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta layer.
  10. Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the ricotta. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
  11. Repeat the layers: remaining ziti, remaining ricotta, remaining sauce, and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
  12. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly browned.
  13. Let the ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a meatless version, skip the ground meat and use extra mushrooms or vegetables in your sauce.
  • Richard likes to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little warmth.
  • Make sure your pasta is slightly undercooked since it will continue to cook in the oven.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishdiarist.com/baked-ziti-with-ricotta-recipe/