Description
Creamy baked ziti with ricotta, mozzarella, and marinara creates a comforting, cheesy pasta casserole that melts in your mouth and rises to golden perfection. Indeed, a comforting Italian staple that is both quick and satisfying.
Ingredients
- ziti pasta
- ricotta cheese
- shredded mozzarella
- grated parmesan cheese
- marinara sauce
- ground beef (optional)
- egg
- fresh garlic
- Italian seasoning
- olive oil
- salt
- black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and toss in the ziti. Cook until just al dente, about 8–9 minutes, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onions and garlic, add ground beef if using until browned.
- Add marinara sauce to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Whisk ricotta with egg, seasoning, and pepper until creamy.
- Fold cooked pasta, sauce, and ricotta together, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, top with mozzarella and parmesan, and bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes.
- Let rest 5 minutes, slice, and serve hot.
- Continue as instructed in Stove & Oven Directions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian