Description
A rich, creamy, and hearty gluten-free baked ziti that honors traditional Italian flavors. This recipe uses a silky ricotta layer, high-quality cheeses, and perfectly cooked gluten-free pasta for a comforting dish that holds its shape.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz gluten-free ziti pasta
- 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese (drained if watery)
- 8 oz whole milk mozzarella cheese (shredded from a block)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano)
- 1 lb 80/20 ground beef
- 24 oz high-quality marinara sauce
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more for pasta water)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gluten-free ziti for 1 minute less than package directions for al dente. Drain and rinse briefly with warm water. Toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 8-10 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir marinara sauce and 1/2 teaspoon salt into the beef. Simmer on low for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- In a medium bowl, combine drained ricotta, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup parmesan, 1/4 cup chopped basil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Blend or mash until smooth and creamy.
- Spread half of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Add half of the cooked ziti, then half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layers with remaining sauce, ziti, and ricotta.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and remaining 1/2 cup parmesan over the top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow layers to set.
Notes
Ensure ricotta is drained if watery to prevent a soggy casserole. Do not overcook the gluten-free pasta initially as it will continue to cook in the oven. Let the dish rest for 15 minutes after baking to ensure clean slices. This dish freezes well unbaked for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 55
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 30
Keywords: gluten-free baked ziti, creamy baked ziti, gluten-free pasta, Italian comfort food, make-ahead dinner, celiac friendly