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Easy Cheesy Gluten-Free Baked Ziti Recipe with Rice Pasta Perfect for Busy Nights

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A quick and comforting gluten-free baked ziti made with rice pasta, homemade tomato sauce, and a blend of cheeses. Perfect for busy weeknights, this cheesy dish is easy to prepare and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) rice pasta (ziti-shaped or penne)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 ounces (800 grams) canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (about 8 ounces or 225 grams)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (about 240 grams)
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (50 grams)
  • Handful fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) water or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of rice pasta and cook for 7-9 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Stir in 28 ounces (800 grams) canned crushed tomatoes and 2 tablespoons tomato paste. Season with 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Let simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add ½ cup (120 ml) water or vegetable broth if sauce thickens too much.
  5. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and ¼ cup grated parmesan. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Fold the cooked pasta gently into the cheese mixture.
  6. In an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish, spread half of the tomato sauce evenly on the bottom. Add the pasta-cheese mixture in an even layer. Pour the remaining sauce over the top and spread gently.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and ¼ cup parmesan evenly over the surface.
  8. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese crust is golden brown. Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too fast.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the rice pasta to avoid mushiness. Salt pasta water generously for better flavor. Simmer sauce low and slow to deepen flavor. Mix cheese and pasta gently off heat to prevent clumping. Cover with foil if cheese browns too quickly. Let baked ziti rest before serving to thicken sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: gluten-free baked ziti, rice pasta baked ziti, cheesy baked ziti, gluten-free pasta recipe, easy baked ziti, comfort food, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/easy-cheesy-gluten-free-baked-ziti-recipe-with-rice-pasta-perfect-for-busy-nights/