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Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Basil is a quintessential comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. This classic Italian-American dish combines the robust flavors of a rich tomato sauce with creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella, creating a delightful harmony of textures and tastes. Whether you're planning a family dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this baked ziti recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Basil

Discover the warmth of Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Basil, the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. This classic Italian-American dish combines ziti pasta, creamy ricotta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey mozzarella for a satisfying feast. Easy to customize, you can add veggies or meats to make it your own. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this delicious recipe will keep everyone coming back for more—bring the joy of homemade meals to your table!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups ziti pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely diced

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)

1 large egg

1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped (plus additional leaves for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking.

    Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until just al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside for later use.

      Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for around 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes and dried oregano. If you enjoy a little heat, add the red pepper flakes. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, then allow it to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

        Mix the Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and chopped fresh basil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and creamy.

          Combine Ziti and Sauce: In a large bowl, gently fold the cooked ziti into the prepared sauce, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated evenly.

            Layer in the Baking Dish: Prepare a greased 9x13 inch baking dish by spreading half of the ziti and sauce mixture evenly across the bottom. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta, creating small mounds. Next, sprinkle a third of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti and sauce mixture, followed by the rest of the ricotta mixture. Finally, generously top with more shredded mozzarella to create a bubbly, crispy finish.

              Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and turns a lovely golden brown.

                Serve and Garnish: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set. Just before serving, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and aroma.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes | Servings: 6-8

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve this comforting dish in individual portions on warm plates, topped with a sprinkle of fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for a delightful touch.