Description
Delicious Baked Ziti Skewers feature perfectly cooked rigatoni threaded onto skewers, layered with creamy ricotta, garlic, marinara sauce, and a blend of parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Baked to golden perfection and garnished with fresh parsley, these skewers offer a fun, handheld twist on a classic Italian comfort dish, perfect for parties or family dinners.
Ingredients
Pastas & Skewers
- 10 oz. rigatoni or ziti pasta
- 6 - 8 wooden skewers, 12 inches each
Cheeses & Dairy
- 1 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, grated
Sauces & Seasonings
- 1 jar store-bought marinara sauce (Raos recommended)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced/pasted
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Drizzle of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni or ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, according to package instructions. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside in a bowl to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Skewers: Take a wooden skewer and thread approximately 14 tubes of cooked pasta onto it, ensuring the noodles are snugly touching each other to form a solid base on the skewer. Repeat for remaining skewers.
- Make the Ricotta Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the whole milk ricotta with minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix well to create a creamy, flavorful spread.
- Assemble the Skewers: Using a spoon, generously spread the ricotta mixture over the threaded pasta on each skewer. Next, evenly spoon marinara sauce over the ricotta layer. Sprinkle finely grated parmesan cheese followed by a layer of grated mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake the Skewers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil. Bake in the oven for about 14 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on the edges.
- Garnish and Rest: Remove the skewers from the oven and sprinkle fresh minced parsley over them. Allow the skewers to rest for 5 minutes to let flavors meld and cheese set slightly before serving.
Notes
- Ensure pasta is thoroughly drained to avoid soggy skewers.
- If wooden skewers are not soaked prior to use, monitor closely as they can burn in the oven.
- Adjust seasoning in ricotta to taste, adding more garlic or herbs if desired.
- These skewers pair well with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Can be made ahead and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
