Stuffed Ziti Fritta

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Try this delicious Stuffed Ziti Fritta recipe for a fun twist on pasta! These crispy, cheesy bites are filled with ziti and marinara sauce, perfect for parties or family dinners. Quick and easy to make, they are sure to be a hit with everyone! Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor!

Appetizers

Oh boy, let me tell you about a dish that’s taken my kitchen by storm—Stuffed Ziti Fritta! Picture this: perfectly cooked ziti pasta that’s stuffed with a gooey, cheesy filling, then coated in crispy breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection. If you’re a cheese lover like me— and who isn’t? —this might just become your new favorite recipe. I remember the first time I made it; my friends didn’t believe it wasn’t from a fancy restaurant. Honestly, who doesn’t want to impress with a dish that looks and tastes like it’s straight out of a gourmet kitchen?

This dish brings back memories of cozy gatherings and laughter around the dining table. I recall one particular evening when my friends and I tried to replicate a beloved Italian restaurant’s version of this dish—only to find ourselves splitting at the seams after devouring plate after plate! It’s hearty, comforting, and so darn fun to eat. So let’s roll up our sleeves and dive right into this cheesy adventure!

What’s in Stuffed Ziti Fritta?

  • Ziti pasta: The star of the show! It’s like a cozy home for all that cheesy goodness. I like to use De Cecco or Barilla brands for that perfect texture.
  • Ricotta cheese: This creamy delight gives the filling its rich and slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the other cheeses.
  • Mozzarella cheese: Shredded to perfection! You can never have enough cheese, right? Look for a good quality mozzarella for a melty experience.
  • Parmesan cheese: This adds the needed salty kick! I prefer freshly grated— it makes a world of difference.
  • Egg: The binding agent that holds our cheesy mixture together. You could even use a flax egg for a vegan twist!
  • Garlic powder: Because let’s face it, garlic elevates any dish. No need for fresh garlic here since we’re frying.
  • Italian seasoning: A sprinkle of this mix of herbs brings Italy to your kitchen! You can make your own with dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
  • Salt and pepper: The essentials for seasoning—don’t skimp on them!
  • Flour: The first station in our breading process. It’s what keeps things tidy before the real fun begins!
  • Large eggs: Two of them for our delicious breading. It makes all the difference when it comes to getting that golden crust.
  • Breadcrumbs: I love using Italian-style for that extra flavor boost—not just any breadcrumbs, we want that zest!
  • Vegetable oil: This is what brings it all home— we need a good amount for frying to get that crispiness just right!
  • Marinara sauce: For dipping, of course! Homemade or store-bought, your choice—just make sure it’s plentiful!
  • Fresh basil leaves: Not just for garnish; it adds a pop of freshness that cuts through the richness of the dish!

Is Stuffed Ziti Fritta Good for You?

Well, in a word, it’s definitely a treat! With ricotta and mozzarella cheese, you’re packing in some protein and calcium, while the ziti gives you those comforting carbs perfect for a cozy night in. But let’s be honest, it’s not a health food—it’s more of an “occasion” dish. You might want to skip this on your fitness journey’s more intense days. The vegetable oil makes it crisp but adds a bit of fat, so moderation is key if you’re watching what you eat. Ooh, and don’t forget pairing it with a fresh salad to get those greens in!

Ingredients List

  • 8 oz ziti pasta
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup flour
  • 2 large eggs (for breading)
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)
  • Marinara sauce (for dipping)
  • Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

How to Make Stuffed Ziti Fritta?

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and let cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Stuff the Ziti: Once the pasta is cool enough to handle, take each ziti piece and carefully stuff it with the cheese mixture using a small spoon or piping bag. Set aside.
  4. Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
  5. Bread the Stuffed Ziti: Dredge each stuffed ziti in flour, dip in the beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure every piece is well coated.
  6. Fry the Ziti: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded ziti in batches, frying until golden brown and crispy on all sides—about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  7. Serve: Arrange the fried stuffed ziti on a serving platter, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Ziti Fritta

  • For an extra burst of flavor, consider mixing in cooked crumbled sausage or pepperoni into that cheese filling. You won’t regret it!
  • Ensure the frying oil is hot enough—drop in a breadcrumb to check! It should sizzle immediately.
  • These little bites make for an amazing appetizer or side dish at your next gathering. People will rave about them!

Trust me, once you try these Stuffed Ziti Fritta, you’ll understand why they were such a hit at my dinner party! I can’t wait for you to dive into this cheesy, crispy delight. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the deliciousness unfold. And if you make them, please share your experience with me—I’d love to hear how they turn out in your home! Buon appetito!

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