Healthy Mac and Cheese Recipe: A Lighter, Creamy Comfort Food

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Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella: A Cheesy Comfort Food Delight

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Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella: A Cheesy Comfort Food Delight

Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Subtitle: A simple, cheesy pasta bake that’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings.

Introduction
Few dishes scream "comfort food" like baked ziti. This classic pasta bake, loaded with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and rich marinara sauce, is a crowd-pleaser for all occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a hearty homemade meal, this easy-to-make recipe will satisfy every appetite.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious dish, you’ll need:

  • 450g (1 lb) ziti pasta
  • 500g (2 cups) marinara sauce
  • 250g (1 cup) ricotta cheese
  • 300g (1 ½ cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 50g (¼ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta
    Boil ziti pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Prepare the Sauce
    In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.

  3. Mix the Cheeses
    In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and Parmesan. Mix well.

  4. Assemble the Dish
    Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce. Add a layer of cooked pasta, then dollops of the ricotta mixture. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with marinara sauce. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.

  5. Bake to Perfection
    Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

  6. Serve and Enjoy
    Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot with a side of garlic bread or salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Simple steps and minimal prep make this dish a go-to for busy nights.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: Cheesy, saucy, and delicious—everyone loves a good pasta bake.
  • Customizable: Add ground beef, sausage, or veggies to make it your own.

Conclusion
Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella is a dish that brings people together. Its rich, cheesy layers and hearty pasta make it a favorite for any occasion.