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baked ziti with ricotta mozzarella and tomato sauce
matthewcutolo

Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti is a classic Italian-American pasta dish made with ziti, tomato sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmigiano Reggiano, then baked until bubbling and golden. Perfect for family dinners and comforting meals.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Ziti
  • Olive oil q.b.
  • ½ medium onion finely diced
  • Salt & black pepper q.b.
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 jar 24–26 oz passata di pomodoro
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 12 oz mozzarella cut into small cubes
  • 1 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano plus more for topping

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion, season with salt and pepper, and cook until soft and translucent.
  2. Stir in the butter, then add the passata and fresh basil. Let the sauce simmer gently for 20–25 minutes.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the pasta with the tomato sauce, ricotta, and ½ cup Parmigiano Reggiano. Mix until well combined.
  5. Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  6. Add half of the pasta mixture. Top with ⅓ of the mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmigiano.
  7. Add the remaining pasta mixture, then finish with the remaining mozzarella and more Parmigiano.
  8. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 25–30 minutes, until bubbling and golden on top.
  9. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Cooking the pasta just shy of al dente prevents it from becoming too soft while baking.
Adding butter to the sauce creates a richer, smoother flavor.
Letting the baked ziti rest before serving helps it hold its shape.
Using cubed mozzarella instead of shredded gives you better pockets of melted cheese.