Baked Ziti With Ricotta

Name: Baked Ziti With Ricotta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti pasta; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 3 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Joy

I absolutely love making Baked Ziti With Ricotta for family gatherings or cozy dinner nights. The layers of pasta, cheese, and rich tomato sauce meld together beautifully in the oven. Each bite offers a comforting balance of flavors, and the creamy ricotta elevates the dish to a whole new level. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that everyone enjoys. Plus, the leftovers are always just as good, making it a great option for meal prep during the week.

Created by

Aubrey Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:09:36.415Z

When I first tried my hand at making Baked Ziti With Ricotta, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious the process was. Using high-quality ingredients like fresh mozzarella and homemade marinara makes all the difference. I remember being particularly delighted with the way the cheese melted and created that irresistible bubbly top. It's a dish that truly celebrates comfort food.

Over the years, I've perfected the layers to ensure that every bite is filled with flavor. A little tip: letting the baked ziti rest for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to settle and makes slicing easier. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce in every bite
Creamy ricotta that adds a rich texture and flavor
Perfect for serving a crowd or enjoying as leftovers

Key Techniques for Perfect Baked Ziti

Cooking the ziti to the perfect al dente consistency is crucial for achieving the right texture in your baked ziti. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy when baked, while undercooked pasta may be too firm. Aim for a firm bite, around 8-10 minutes in salted boiling water, ensuring that it’s slightly chewy since it will continue cooking in the oven.

When mixing the cheese filling, take your time to blend the ricotta, egg, and Parmesan together thoroughly. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture that easily spreads throughout the layers. I recommend using a fork or a whisk; this helps incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a light texture once baked.

Ingredient Roles and Variations

Ricotta cheese is the star ingredient in this dish, providing creaminess and an authentic Italian flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using part-skim ricotta or even cottage cheese for a similar texture with fewer calories. If you want to enhance the flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese mixture—the subtle warmth pairs beautifully with the tomatoes.

For a heartier version, you can include cooked ground meat such as sausage or beef between the layers. Just make sure to drain any excess fat before adding the meat to maintain the ideal consistency of the baked ziti. Vegetarian options could include sautéed mushrooms or spinach, adding both flavor and nutritional value.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Baked Ziti With Ricotta!

Ingredients

1 pound ziti pasta
2 cups ricotta cheese
3 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start assembling!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Baked Ziti With Ricotta.

Cook the Pasta

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the ziti pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully blended.

Assemble the Dish

Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer half of the cooked ziti over the sauce and then spread half of the ricotta mixture on top. Repeat with another layer of sauce, ziti, and the remaining ricotta.

Add Mozzarella and Bake

Finish by pouring the remaining marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the baked ziti cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Baked Ziti With Ricotta!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked ground beef or sausage before baking. You can also experiment with different types of cheese such as provolone or cheddar.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Baked ziti is an excellent meal prep option since it stores beautifully. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, ensure you use a freezer-safe dish and wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

When reheating, take it straight from the fridge or freezer and cover with foil to retain moisture. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes if refrigerated, or 45 minutes if frozen. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to get that lovely, bubbly mozzarella goodness on top.

Serving Suggestions

Baked ziti can be enjoyed on its own, but pairing it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread transforms it into a full-fledged meal. A crisp Caesar salad complements the richness of the cheese, while a side of garlic knots adds a delightful crunch.

For a homemade touch, consider offering freshly grated Parmesan and crushed red pepper on the side. This allows guests to customize their servings to their taste, adding an extra layer of flavor that elevates the dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the baked ziti and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.

→ What can I serve with baked ziti?

Baked ziti pairs well with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

→ Can I substitute other pasta shapes?

Yes, feel free to use other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli if you prefer.