Baked ricotta transforms mild fresh cheese into elegant appetizer through gentle heating that creates golden exterior while maintaining creamy interior perfect for spreading. This Italian-inspired dish works beautifully as party starter, sophisticated snack, or light meal when served with crusty bread and accompaniments. The key to exceptional baked ricotta lies in using quality whole-milk ricotta, proper seasoning that enhances natural sweetness, and baking temperature that sets cheese without drying or curdling.
How to Make Baked Ricotta
Essential Ingredients
For Savory Baked Ricotta (Serves 6-8):
- 2 lbs whole-milk ricotta cheese (fresh preferred)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh herbs for garnish
For Sweet Version:
- 2 lbs whole-milk ricotta
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 cup honey, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh berries for serving
For Serving:
- Toasted baguette slices
- Crackers
- Fresh vegetables
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Honey or balsamic glaze
Preparation and Baking Instructions
Savory preparation (10 minutes):
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Grease 8 or 9-inch baking dish or cast iron skillet with olive oil
- If ricotta is very wet, drain in fine-mesh strainer 15 minutes
- Combine ricotta, eggs, Parmesan, garlic, basil, thyme, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes
- Mix gently until well combined but not overmixed
- Taste and adjust seasonings as desired
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish
- Smooth top with spatula creating even surface
Baking process (30-40 minutes):
- Drizzle top with olive oil
- Bake 30-40 minutes until edges are golden and center is just set
- Surface should have slight jiggle in center when gently shaken
- Internal temperature should reach 160°F
- Top will develop golden color and slight puffiness
- Remove from oven and let cool 10 minutes
- Drizzle with additional olive oil
- Garnish with fresh herbs
- Serve warm or at room temperature with bread or crackers
Sweet version baking:
- Mix ricotta with eggs, honey, vanilla, cinnamon, lemon zest, and salt
- Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes until golden
- Cool and drizzle with additional honey
- Serve with fresh berries and biscotti
Conclusion
Baked ricotta transforms simple cheese into sophisticated appetizer requiring minimal effort while delivering impressive results. Success depends on quality whole-milk ricotta, proper seasoning enhancing natural sweetness, and gentle baking that creates golden exterior while maintaining creamy center. Whether preparing savory herb version or sweet honey variation, this versatile dish adapts to various occasions from casual gatherings to elegant entertaining. Master this Italian classic to add reliable crowd-pleaser requiring few ingredients but delivering restaurant-quality presentation and flavor.
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