Cheese For Ziti: Mozzarella, Parmesan, And More!

Baked ziti is a popular pasta dish that combines ziti pasta with various cheeses, sauces, and meats. The cheeses used in baked ziti can vary, with some recipes calling for ricotta, parmesan, cream cheese, mozzarella, mascarpone, fontina, or pecorino romano. The type of cheese used can impact the creaminess, flavour, and texture of the dish. For example, low-moisture mozzarella is known for its stretchability and melting properties, while fresh mozzarella melts easier and has a milky flavour. Ultimately, the choice of cheese depends on personal preference and the desired characteristics of the final dish.

Fresh vs low-moisture mozzarella

Mozzarella is a popular cheese used in many dishes, including ziti. There are two main types of mozzarella: fresh and low-moisture. While both are delicious, they have distinct characteristics and are suited to different applications.

Fresh Mozzarella

Fresh mozzarella is a soft, bright white cheese usually made in ball formats and packed in water or hand-wrapped in plastic wrap. It has a high moisture content and should be consumed within seven days of production. When heated, the water evaporates, which can result in a "soupy" texture that may not be ideal for certain dishes. However, it works well on Neapolitan-style pizzas. Fresh mozzarella is best suited for cold dishes and is commonly used in salads, such as Caprese, or enjoyed on its own. It has a mild, milky flavour and a soft, chewy texture.

Low-Moisture Mozzarella

Low-moisture mozzarella, also known as "low-moisture part-skim," is created by souring fresh mozzarella slightly longer and then carefully drying it out. This process reduces its moisture content, resulting in a longer shelf life and a saltier flavour. The lower moisture content also gives the cheese better browning and stretching abilities when heated, making it ideal for dishes like baked ziti, grilled cheese sandwiches, and pizzas. Low-moisture mozzarella is the type commonly used in shredded or sliced form and is widely available in grocery stores. It has superior melting capabilities and creates a stretchy, gooey texture that is desirable in many cooked dishes.

Using the Right Mozzarella for Ziti

When making ziti, it is essential to consider the role of the cheese in the dish. Baked ziti recipes often call for layering or mixing the cheese with other ingredients, such as pasta and sauce, and then baking it in the oven. In this case, low-moisture mozzarella is the better choice due to its melting properties and ability to stretch and brown without releasing excess water. Fresh mozzarella may result in a drier, less creamy texture and is not ideal for heated dishes like baked ziti. However, if you are making a cold ziti salad or a dish where the mozzarella is used as a fresh topping, then fresh mozzarella could be a delicious option.

Ricotta alternatives

Ricotta is a popular choice of cheese for ziti recipes, but there are several alternatives that can be used instead. Here are some options to consider:

Mascarpone Cheese

Mascarpone is a creamy and luscious alternative to ricotta that can be used in ziti. It has a super creamy texture and is easy to work with. It blends well with other cheeses and ingredients, creating a smooth and decadent dish. Mascarpone also has a longer shelf life than ricotta, so it can be a more convenient option.

Bechamel Sauce

If you're looking for a creamier option without adding cheese, bechamel sauce is a great choice. It's a classic white sauce made with butter, flour, and milk. While it requires preparing an additional sauce, it adds a rich and silky texture to the ziti. Bechamel is commonly used in lasagna and other baked pasta dishes, so it's a suitable substitute for ricotta.

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is another viable alternative to ricotta. It has a similar creamy texture and a tangy flavor that can enhance the taste of your ziti. Cream cheese melts well and combines nicely with other cheeses, creating a cohesive and indulgent dish. It's a versatile option that can be used in both sweet and savory applications.

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese has a similar texture to ricotta but with a milder flavor. It's a fresh and slightly tangy cheese that can add creaminess to your ziti without overwhelming the other ingredients. Cottage cheese also tends to be less expensive than ricotta, making it a budget-friendly option.

Tofu

For a vegan-friendly option, tofu can be used as a ricotta substitute. Silken tofu, in particular, has a creamy texture that can mimic the mouthfeel of ricotta. You can blend it with herbs, spices, and nutritional yeast to create a cheesy flavor profile. Tofu is a versatile and plant-based alternative to traditional ricotta.

Parmesan cream sauce

A good baked ziti is all about the cheese. And while there are many types of cheese that can be used in a baked ziti, a Parmesan cream sauce is a great way to add a smooth, creamy texture and a strong Parmesan flavour to the dish.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (about 1 cup)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and position a rack in the centre.
• Boil the ziti pasta in a medium pot of salted boiling water until about halfway cooked (about 6 1/2 minutes for pasta that will be al dente in 9 minutes).
• Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta with your chosen tomato sauce, the reserved pasta cooking water, and the mozzarella cheeses.
• Season with salt and pepper and stir to combine.
• Scrape the mixture into a baking dish and press into an even layer.
• Drizzle the remaining tomato sauce over the top of the pasta.
• Scatter the remaining mozzarella over the top, cover with aluminium foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
• Meanwhile, make the Parmesan cream sauce. Gently simmer the cream over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until reduced by a quarter, about 20 minutes.
• Sprinkle the Parmigiano-Reggiano into the cream and whisk until completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper, and add lemon zest if desired.
• Keep the sauce warm while the ziti finishes baking.
• Increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C), uncover the baked ziti, and cook until just starting to brown on top, about 10 minutes.
• Let the ziti stand for 10 minutes, then top with basil leaves, spoon onto plates, and drizzle with the Parmesan cream sauce.
• Serve immediately.

Tips

• For a more indulgent dish, add an extra creamy layer to your ziti by mixing mascarpone with grated garlic and a pinch of salt.
• For a vegetarian option, omit the pancetta and use a meat-free tomato sauce.
• If you can't get your hands on good-quality ricotta, it's best to leave it out altogether and replace it with a Parmesan cream sauce.
• For a stronger Parmesan flavour, use a microplane grater to grate the cheese.

Freezing and reheating

Ziti is a comforting meal that is very versatile. It can be made with different types of cheese, sauces, and meats. It can also be frozen and reheated, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. Here are some detailed instructions on freezing and reheating ziti:

Freezing:

• Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Prepare your desired cheese mixture. A common combination is ricotta, mozzarella, and grated parmesan, but you can experiment with other cheeses such as provolone, pecorino Romano, or cream cheese. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, and add chopped parsley or other herbs if desired.
• Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese mixture until well combined.
• Build your casserole by coating the bottom of an oven-safe and freezer-safe dish with tomato sauce. You can use a disposable aluminum pan or a casserole dish.
• Add half of the ziti and cheese mixture, spreading it evenly. Then, add more tomato sauce, followed by the rest of the ziti and cheese mixture.
• For the final layer, add more sauce, mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan, and fresh basil if desired.
• Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap, and then cover with aluminum foil to create an airtight seal.
• Store the ziti in the freezer until you are ready to cook it. It can be kept in a regular freezer for up to 3 months and in a deep freezer for up to 1 year.

Reheating:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for reheating a frozen ziti or 375°F (190°C) for reheating a refrigerated ziti.
• If reheating from frozen, it is best to thaw the ziti first. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 24-48 hours before reheating.
• Remove the plastic wrap from the dish to avoid melting and burning.
• Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss and keep the cheese from sticking. Spray the underside of the foil with cooking spray if desired.
• Place the ziti in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour or until the sauce and cheese are bubbling.
• For a browned cheese top, remove the foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
• Alternatively, smaller portions of ziti can be reheated in the microwave. Place the portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a wet paper towel. Microwave in 30-second increments until the ziti is bubbling and hot throughout.

Tips for Best Results:

• Add a small amount of water to the bottom of the pan before reheating to prevent the pasta from drying out.
• Always cover the dish when reheating in the oven or microwave to retain moisture and prevent burning.
• If using a glass dish, let it come to room temperature before placing it in a hot oven to prevent shattering.
• Check the ziti often during reheating to avoid overcooking, which can result in tough noodles and burnt cheese.

Meat or no meat

Baked ziti is a versatile dish that can be made with or without meat. Here are some reasons for and against including meat:

Meat

Meat can add flavour, texture, and protein to your baked ziti. Here are some reasons you might choose to include it:

• Many baked ziti recipes traditionally include meat, such as ground beef, Italian sausage, or pancetta.
• Meat can provide a heartier, more filling dish, making it a good option if you're serving a crowd or want leftovers.
• Including meat can be a way to add more variety to your dish, especially if you're already using multiple types of cheese.

No Meat

On the other hand, there are also benefits to leaving the meat out of your baked ziti:

• Baked ziti is often a very cheesy and creamy dish, and meat can add extra heaviness that may be undesirable.
• Leaving out the meat can make your dish more budget-friendly, as meat can be expensive.
• A meatless baked ziti is a good option for vegetarians or those who don't eat meat for religious or ethical reasons.
• Without meat, your dish may be quicker and easier to prepare, as you don't need to worry about browning or cooking the meat separately.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to include meat in your baked ziti comes down to personal preference. Both options can be delicious, so feel free to experiment and see which version you prefer!

Frequently asked questions