Baked Ziti With Ricotta

Name: Baked Ziti With Ricotta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration

I love making Baked Ziti with Ricotta for its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. The combination of al dente pasta mingling with a rich tomato sauce and creamy ricotta always brings smiles at the dinner table. It's a dish that effortlessly feeds a crowd, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, I can whip up this hearty meal in no time, ensuring that everyone leaves satisfied and wanting more.

Created by

Kerensa Trelawney

Last updated on 2026-03-31T07:01:44.151Z

When I was experimenting with my version of Baked Ziti, I learned that using a combination of ricotta and mozzarella creates a wonderfully creamy and cheesy texture that makes every bite satisfying. The addition of fresh herbs really elevates the flavor profile, making it a dish that I relish sharing with loved ones.

One specific tip I picked up is to let the baked ziti sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring each serving holds together perfectly when plated. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Rich layers of creamy ricotta cheese
Hearty and filling, ideal for family meals
Adaptable with your choice of vegetables or proteins

Perfecting the Pasta

When cooking the ziti pasta, aim for a perfect al dente texture. This means that the pasta should be firm to the bite, which is crucial as it will absorb some moisture from the marinara sauce once baked. Start checking the pasta a minute or two before the package’s suggested cooking time. If you're unsure, taste a piece to ensure it has the right firmness without being too soft or mushy.

Draining the pasta properly is just as important. Give it a quick rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process and help it maintain its texture. Avoid overcooking, as the ziti will continue to soften in the oven. Additionally, if you're preparing a large batch, consider using a large colander to ensure even draining without any ziti sticking together.

Crafting the Cheese Mixture

The ricotta cheese is a star ingredient in this dish, contributing its creamy texture and mild flavor. For a smoother filling, you can blend the ricotta in a food processor before mixing it with the egg and other cheeses. This small step can elevate the creaminess of your baked ziti, making it even more delectable. Feel free to experiment by adding a hint of garlic powder or a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra flavor.

Incorporating fresh basil not only adds freshness but also color to the cheese filling. If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, an alternative is to use dried herbs; however, remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use about one-third the amount. When mixing, take care not to overwork the cheese mixture, as this can cause it to become dense. You’re looking for a creamy blend that can easily spread between the layers.

Baking and Serving Tips

The baking process is key to achieving that golden, bubbly top. Using aluminum foil during the first half of the baking time prevents the cheese from browning too quickly. Once the foil is removed, keep an eye on it as it finishes baking; around 15 minutes should be enough for the cheese to turn a lovely golden color and become irresistibly bubbly. If you prefer an even crunchier top, you can broil the baked ziti for a couple of minutes at the end, but watch it closely to avoid burning.

After baking, it's best to let the ziti cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This waiting period not only makes slicing easier but also allows the layers to set, improving the overall presentation. To accompany the baked ziti, consider serving a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread. Both pair perfectly with the rich flavors of the dish, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make delicious Baked Ziti with Ricotta:

Ingredients

12 oz ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, you’ll be all set to begin the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Baked Ziti with Ricotta:

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir in chopped basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Ziti

In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked pasta, then half of the cheese mixture, followed by another layer of marinara sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining mozzarella on top.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Allow the baked ziti to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pair it with a fresh salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the pasta mix for added nutrients and flavor!

Make-Ahead and Storage

Baked ziti is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can assemble the dish the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time; you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to ensure it heats through completely. This approach is perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd without the last-minute fuss.

If you have leftovers, they store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can gently reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for quicker serving. For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled but unbaked ziti. Wrap it tightly and it can last for up to three months; just add extra baking time when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Variations and Add-Ins

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing for numerous variations to suit your taste preferences. For a veggie boost, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini between the layers. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture from your vegetables to prevent a watery dish. Alternatively, if you want to include protein, adding cooked sausage or ground beef can make this dish more filling while complementing the ziti beautifully.

If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute whole wheat ziti or even spiralized zucchini for a gluten-free option. Just adjust the baking time slightly, as the zucchini will require less time to cook. Experimenting with different cheeses can also create a unique flavor: switch out the ricotta for cottage cheese or use a blend of smoked mozzarella for a richer flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead and store it in the fridge. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or mascarpone for a different texture and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I freeze Baked Ziti?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled dish before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.