Baked Pasta with Ricotta: A Deliciously Creamy Recipe to Try Today

Baked Pasta with Ricotta is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any dining table. As I prepare this recipe, I can’t help but think of the rich history behind baked pasta dishes, which have been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. The combination of al dente pasta, creamy ricotta, and a medley of flavors creates a symphony of taste and texture that is simply irresistible.

What I love most about Baked Pasta with Ricotta is its versatility; it can be customized with various ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. The creamy ricotta adds a luscious texture that pairs beautifully with the pasta, while the baked topping creates a satisfying crunch. It’s no wonder that people adore this dish—it’s not only delicious but also incredibly convenient to prepare. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces of pasta (penne or rigatoni work great)
• 15 ounces of ricotta cheese
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups of marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
• Olive oil for greasing the baking dish

Preparing the Pasta

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your baked pasta cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden top. 2. **Boil the Pasta**: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember, we want the pasta to be slightly undercooked since it will continue to cook in the oven. 3. **Drain and Rinse**: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool slightly.

Preparing the Ricotta Mixture

4. **Mix the Ricotta**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. 5. **Add Cheese**: Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese into the ricotta mixture. This will add a delicious cheesy flavor to the filling.

Combining Ingredients

6. **Combine Pasta and Sauce**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce. Make sure the pasta is well coated with the sauce. This step is crucial as it adds flavor to the pasta and keeps it moist during baking. 7. **Fold in the Ricotta Mixture**: Gently fold the ricotta mixture into the pasta and sauce. Be careful not to break the pasta too much; you want to keep some of that lovely shape. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.

Assembling the Baked Pasta

8. **Prepare the Baking Dish**: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil. This will prevent the pasta from sticking and make for easier cleanup. 9. **Layer the Pasta**: Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. 10. **Add More Sauce**: Spoon a little extra marinara sauce over the first layer of pasta. This will keep the dish moist and flavorful. 11. **Add Remaining Pasta**: Pour the remaining pasta mixture on top, spreading it out evenly again. 12. **Top with Cheese**: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust as it bakes.

Baking the Pasta

13. **Cover with Foil**: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help the pasta cook evenly and prevent the cheese from burning too quickly. 14. **Bake**: Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the pasta to heat through. 15. **Uncover and Brown**: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.

Serving the Baked Pasta

16. **Let it Rest**: Once the baked pasta is out of the oven, let it sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the dish to set, making it easier to serve. 17. **Garnish**: If you like, sprinkle some fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and added flavor. 18. **Serve**: Cut into squares and serve warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread.

Storage and Reheating

19. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because

Conclusion:

In summary, this Baked Pasta with Ricotta is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. The creamy ricotta combined with the rich flavors of the pasta and sauce creates a comforting dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, or even incorporating some protein like grilled chicken or Italian sausage for an extra hearty meal. I highly encourage you to give this recipe a go. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you add any unique twists or variations? Sharing your thoughts and photos on social media can inspire others to dive into this delightful dish as well. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen with this Baked Pasta with Ricotta! Happy cooking!

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