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I am going to let you in on a little secret… the best lasagna starts with good ricotta. Not all ricotta is created equal, but this baked ricotta recipe is the perfect foundation for an incredible lasagna. Trust me, your friends and family will be begging you for this recipe once they have tried it!
What Is Ricotta Cheese?
Ricotta cheese is a creamy, fluffy dairy product that is often used in Italian dishes such as lasagna and cannoli that has a slightly sweet taste and a creamy texture. It is made from cow, sheep, or goat’s milk whey that has been heated and then strained to remove any solids. This gives ricotta its signature light and airy texture.
The word “ricotta” means “recooked,” and the cheese is indeed made by cooking whey (a byproduct of making other types of cheese) until it forms clumps. It can also be used in savory dishes such as lasagna and pizza. Ricotta cheese is a versatile ingredient that can add both flavor and creaminess to a variety of dishes.
Things We Need To Know About Baked Ricotta
Baked ricotta is essentially just ricotta cheese that has been baked in the oven until it becomes warm and slightly browned on top. It can be served as a delicious appetizer, spread onto bread or crackers, or used as a creamy addition to pasta and casseroles.
This baked ricotta recipe calls for the addition of herbs such as basil and oregano for added flavor, as well as a drizzle of olive oil for richness. Baking the ricotta also helps to enhance its creamy texture and bring out its mild, slightly sweet taste.
Baked Ricotta Recipe
Why This Baked Ricotta Recipe Is The Best?
This baked ricotta recipe is easy to prepare and only requires a few simple ingredients. The result is a creamy, flavorful dish that can be served as an appetizer or used in other dishes such as lasagna.
The addition of herbs and olive oil helps to enhance the flavor of the ricotta, making it a tasty and unique option for entertaining or a weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any extra ricotta cheese you may have on hand.
How To Make Baked Ricotta?
To make this baked ricotta recipe, simply combine ricotta cheese with herbs and olive oil in an oven-safe dish. Bake in a preheated 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 20 minutes until the top is slightly browned and the cheese is warm. Serve as an appetizer with bread or crackers, or use it as a creamy addition to pasta or casseroles.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk ricotta
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 12 uncooked lasagna noodles
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a medium bowl, mix together ricotta, egg, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread 1 cup marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange 6 uncooked noodles on top of the sauce. Top with half of the ricotta mixture, 1 cup marinara sauce, and 1 cup mozzarella cheese. Repeat layering with remaining noodles, ricotta mixture, 1 cup marinara sauce, and 1 cup mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and noodles are cooked through. Allow cooling for 10 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy as a main dish, or serve as a creamy addition to your favorite pasta dishes.
Notes
- For a bit of added flavor, mix in 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes with the ricotta mixture before layering in the dish.
- You can also substitute vegetable marinara sauce for a meatless option.
Nutrition Facts
This serving size is 1/12 of the dish and provides:
- 288 calories
- 14 grams of fat
- 24 grams of carbohydrates
- 17 grams of protein
Texture Is Dependent On Cook Time
Keep in mind that the texture of your baked ricotta recipe will depend on how long you choose to bake it. A shorter cook time will result in a softer, creamier cheese, while a longer cook time will create a firmer, drier texture. Adjust baking time according to your preference and serve as desired.
Also, remember that the texture will firm up slightly as it cools, so if you prefer a softer cheese, serve immediately after removing it from the oven.
How To Store?
Leftover baked ricotta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat before serving, either in the microwave or by placing the dish back in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven until warmed through.
Baked Ricotta Recipe
What To Serve Alongside?
Serve baked ricotta as an appetizer with bread or crackers for dipping or as a creamy addition to your favorite pasta dishes. It can also be used in place of traditional ricotta in lasagna, stuffed shells, or other Italian favorites. In addition, try serving it alongside roasted vegetables or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.
Talking about what to serve with baked ricotta, Liliana Kitchen recommended you try out this Sugar Cookie Bread recipe. Hope that you will like the combination of them both together!
Tips For Baked Ricotta Recipe
- Feel free to mix in other herbs or flavors, such as garlic, red pepper flakes, or even diced cooked bacon.
- For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
- You can also add some protein by mixing in cooked and crumbled Italian sausage or ground beef with the ricotta mixture before layering in the dish.
- Try experimenting with different types of cheeses, such as a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan, or even adding some crumbled goat cheese for added tanginess.
>> The making of this delicious baked ricotta recipe is once again making your mouthwatering and asking for more. So wait no more and follow this tutorial video for now:
FAQs About Baked Ricotta Recipe
Can I eat ricotta cheese after gastric sleeve?
It’s best to consult with your doctor or dietitian, as they can advise on specific dietary restrictions following gastric sleeve surgery. Generally speaking, ricotta cheese is a low-fat and protein-rich option that can fit into a gastric sleeve diet, but portion sizes and overall daily intake should be monitored.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator before baking, or you can even bake it and then reheat before serving it.
What does ricotta go well with?
Ricotta is often used in Italian dishes, such as lasagna or stuffed shells. It also pairs well with fruits such as berries or stone fruits, as well as vegetables like spinach or tomatoes. It can also be used in place of cream cheese in desserts or spread on toast with some honey or jam.
Can I use whole milk ricotta instead of part skim?
Yes, you can use whole milk ricotta in this recipe, but keep in mind that it may result in a richer and creamier texture. You may also want to adjust the amount of cheese used.
Does ricotta cheese melt in the oven?
Ricotta cheese will not melt in the same way that other cheeses such as mozzarella or cheddar do. It will soften and become creamy in texture as it bakes.
How long does ricotta cheese need to be cooked?
There is no set cooking time for ricotta cheese, as it will depend on the specific recipe and how you are using it. This baked ricotta recipe, it is baked for about 25 minutes. In a lasagna or other dish, it may only need to be heated through in the oven, while in a stuffed shell dish it may need to be cooked longer. It’s best to follow the instructions of your specific recipe.
Conclusion
Baked ricotta is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or added to main dishes for added creaminess. It can be customized with your favorite mix-ins and served alongside bread or vegetables, or used in place of traditional ricotta in Italian dishes.
Liliana Kitchen hopes that you will find the guide for this baked ricotta recipe useful, and be sure to drop your opinions about the dish down in the comment section below. As always, happy cooking!
