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Creamy Three-Cheese Baked Ziti

creamy three-cheese baked ziti - featured image
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A comforting and creamy baked ziti recipe featuring a perfect balance of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses layered with a rich tomato sauce. Ideal for easy weeknight dinners that satisfy both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ziti pasta, cooked al dente
  • 1 ½ cups (375 g) whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
  • ¾ cup (75 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 ounces (800 g) canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, a handful, roughly chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound (450 g) of ziti pasta and cook until just shy of al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the 28 ounces (800 g) crushed tomatoes and 2 tablespoons tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
  4. Add 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Simmer the sauce gently, uncovered, stirring occasionally for 20-25 minutes until it thickens and deepens in flavor.
  6. In a large bowl, mix 1 ½ cups ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, and ½ cup Parmesan with the cooked pasta. Add half of the tomato sauce and gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
  7. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  8. Spread half of the pasta-cheese mixture into the dish, then spoon over the remaining tomato sauce. Top with the remaining 1 cup shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup grated Parmesan for a golden crust.
  9. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and lightly browned.
  10. Let the baked ziti rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta as it will continue cooking in the oven. Simmer the sauce long enough to develop flavor and reduce acidity. Mix cheeses thoroughly into the pasta for even creaminess. Use fresh Parmesan for best melting. Let the dish rest before serving for cleaner slices. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked ziti, creamy baked pasta, three-cheese pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, easy dinner, comfort food, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/creamy-three-cheese-baked-ziti-recipe-easy-homemade-dinner-idea/