Easy Dinner Recipes for Family: Baked Ziti with Ricotta in 7 Steps

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Baked ziti with ricotta is a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to dining tables, especially for families. This easy dinner recipe is not just a cinch to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser, making it a perfect choice for busy weekdays or cozy family dinners. In just seven straightforward steps, you’ll be able to whip up a hearty meal that combines creamy ricotta, savory marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, creating layers of flavor that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

What Is Easy Dinner Recipes for Family: Baked Ziti with Ricotta in 7 Steps?

Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish, renowned for its simplicity and satisfying taste. This dish consists of tubular pasta, typically ziti, mixed with a rich marinara sauce and ricotta cheese, then topped with a blend of mozzarella and parmesan before being baked to perfection. The beauty of baked ziti lies in its layers: each serving delivers a burst of flavors and a comforting texture, making it ideal for family gatherings or even meal prepping.

Why You’ll Love This

This recipe is perfect for busy parents who want to provide a nutritious, filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s easy to customize, so you can adjust the ingredients based on your family’s preferences or dietary restrictions. Moreover, it offers an opportunity for kitchen beginners to hone their culinary skills with straightforward steps while indulging in a dish that feels gourmet. The leftover aspect also shines—baked ziti keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ziti pasta: The star of the dish, ziti pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully. You can also use penne if you prefer.
• 2 cups marinara sauce: Opt for your favorite brand or homemade sauce for that authentic taste. Marinara adds a robust flavor profile.
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese: Creamy ricotta ties the pasta together and provides a luxurious texture. Consider part-skim for a lighter option.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Gooey melted mozzarella on top creates that irresistible cheesy crust.
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese: This adds a nutty flavor and complements the mozzarella nicely.
• 1 large egg: Mixing it in with the ricotta helps to bind the filling together and gives structure.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A mixture of herbs enhances the flavor profile; you can also add some fresh herbs like basil or oregano if you have them.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Always necessary to balance out flavors; season as you go for the best results.
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional): A lovely touch before serving that adds freshness and aesthetics.

How to Make

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the dish cooks evenly and comes out perfectly bubbly. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it.
2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, and add the ziti pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions—this usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. This mixture is essential for adding creaminess and flavor to your baked ziti.
4. In the same pot used for the pasta, add the marinara sauce and cooked ziti. Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully coated with sauce—this step imparts flavor to each noodle.
5. Now, it’s time to layer! In your greased dish, spread half of the pasta mixture, then spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture over it. Add half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese, then top with the remaining pasta.
6. Finish by spreading the rest of the ricotta mixture on top and sprinkling the remaining mozzarella and parmesan. This creates a delicious cheese crust that will be golden and bubbly once baked.
7. Bake in the oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This waiting time allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.

Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian Baked Ziti: To create a vegetarian version of this dish, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the pasta mixture before baking. This not only adds nutrients but also enhances the flavor and texture profile. For a healthier take, you can use whole wheat ziti to increase fiber content.

Meat Lover’s Baked Ziti: For those who enjoy meat, ground beef or sausage can be added to the marinara sauce. Cook the meat beforehand until browned and mix it thoroughly with the sauce. This will create a hearty meal sure to satisfy even the hungriest family members.

Dairy-Free Baked Ziti: If you or a family member is lactose intolerant, try substituting the ricotta and mozzarella with dairy-free alternatives. There are plenty of vegan cheeses available that melt well and offer rich flavors. Also, almond or soy milk can work wonderfully as a substitute for ricotta.

Low-carb Baked Ziti: For a low-carb version, consider using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash in place of traditional pasta. This swap reduces the carbohydrates significantly while still providing a delicious and filling meal. Layer as you would with pasta, and enjoy a guilt-free version of baked ziti.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making baked ziti, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid for the best outcome. First, avoid overcooking the pasta. Since it will bake further in the oven, cook it to al dente; otherwise, it may turn mushy. Next, be careful not to skimp on seasoning. A well-seasoned sauce and cheese mixture are key to a flavorful dish, so taste as you cook! Lastly, do not skip the cooling time. While it may be tempting to dig right in, letting it rest ensures that the layers hold together when served.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips

Once your baked ziti is ready, you might be wondering how to store any leftovers. If you plan on storing it, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Baked ziti can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Make sure to wrap it in airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, approximately 20-25 minutes from frozen. For individual portions, the microwave also works well—heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare baked ziti a day in advance, following all the steps up to the baking point. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, bake it directly without thawing, though it may take a few extra minutes to cook. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or making for gatherings.

How do I know when my baked ziti is done?
You’ll know your baked ziti is done when the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. To ensure that the center is hot, you can use a knife to cut into the dish—if it feels warm to the touch in the middle, it’s ready.

Is baked ziti healthier than other pasta dishes?
Baked ziti can be made healthier by incorporating whole ingredients and controlling portion sizes. You can add vegetables, choose lean meats, or use low-fat dairy products to reduce calories while still enjoying this comfort food.

Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?
Yes, if you don’t have ricotta, you can use cottage cheese as a substitute, which gives similar creaminess. For a dairy-free option, look for plant-based ricotta made from nuts or tofu, which can replicate the texture and flavor in the dish.

What dishes pair well with baked ziti?
Baked ziti is great on its own, but it pairs excellently with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a light vinaigrette salad to cut through the richness of the cheese and sauce.

Conclusion:
Baked ziti with ricotta is not only an easy dinner recipe but also a delightful experience for the whole family. Perfect for busy weeknights or comforting weekends, this dish stands out with its layers of flavor and creamy textures. The best part is its versatility, allowing you to tweak it to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs. Enjoy the process of making this beloved dish and the heartwarming experience of sharing it with loved ones!