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Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking Dish
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces dry ziti pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it warm through for 3 minutes.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  • Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Add half the cooked pasta, then spoon half the ricotta mixture over the top in small dollops. Add more sauce and half the mozzarella. Repeat the layers once more and finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  • Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starting to brown on top.

Notes

Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes after it comes out of the oven so the layers hold together when served. If you want to prepare it ahead, assemble everything in the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to one day before baking. Leftovers reheat best in a 350°F oven to keep the cheese from drying out.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Large Pot, Skillet, Baking Dish, Mixing Bowl