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Rich Baked Ziti Recipe with Three Cheeses topped with bubbly mozzarella and parmesan.

Savory Three Cheese Baked Ziti

This hearty and comforting baked ziti is made with a rich blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, perfect for a cozy dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce
  • 1 pound ziti pasta (or penne) You can use penne as an alternative.
  • 4 cups marinara sauce (store bought or homemade) Choose your favorite sauce.
Cheese Mixture
  • 1 pound ricotta cheese Use whole milk ricotta for best results.
  • 2-3 cups shredded mozzarella Fresh shredded melts nicer than bagged.
  • 1/2-3/4 cup grated Parmesan Grate your own for better flavor.
  • 1 count egg (optional) Helps the ricotta set.
Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste teaspoon Salt
  • to taste teaspoon Pepper
Garnish (optional)
  • to taste count Fresh basil or parsley For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil the ziti in salted water and cook it just a little under what the box says.
  2. If using meat, brown it in a pan, season it, then stir in the marinara sauce and warm together.
  3. In a bowl, mix ricotta with the egg (if using), salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Layering and Baking
  1. Grab a baking dish and add a little sauce on the bottom first.
  2. Layer: half the pasta, half the sauce, spoonfuls of ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and sprinkle with Parmesan. Repeat the layers.
  3. Finish with extra mozzarella and Parmesan on top. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes.
  4. Uncover and bake 10 to 15 minutes more until bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Cover leftovers and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For freezing, cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven as needed.