Baked Ziti With Ricotta

Name: Baked Ziti With Ricotta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Nostalgic Comfort Bites

I remember the first time I made Baked Ziti with Ricotta; it was a rainy evening, and the aroma wafting from the kitchen was heavenly. The combination of tender pasta, rich marinara, and creamy ricotta created a comforting dish that felt like a warm hug. I love how easily this meal comes together, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, as the flavors meld beautifully overnight.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:13:36.505Z

As I experimented with different recipes for Baked Ziti, I discovered that using a mix of ricotta and mozzarella not only enhances the creaminess but also adds a delightful texture that makes each bite satisfying. I prefer to take a generous amount of marinara sauce and mix it into the ricotta before layering it, ensuring that every forkful is bursting with flavor. I also find that letting the ziti rest for a few minutes after baking allows the dish to set, making it easier to serve.

This dish is so versatile; sometimes I add sautéed vegetables or even cooked sausage to elevate the flavor profile. Whatever additions you choose, just remember to keep the balance in mind so that the pasta remains the star of the show. The crispy, golden top after baking is a sight to behold, and I can never resist sneaking a bite right out of the oven!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Layers of ricotta and mozzarella create a delightful creaminess
Perfect for feeding a crowd without too much effort
Easy to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies

Getting the Pasta Just Right

Cooking the pasta to the perfect al dente texture is crucial for Baked Ziti. If overcooked, the pasta can become mushy when baked. I recommend checking the pasta package for cooking times, but keep a close eye around the 8-minute mark. The ziti should be firm yet tender, as it will continue cooking in the oven, absorbing delicious flavors from the sauce.

For the best results, remember to generously salt your boiling water. This step is vital in enhancing the flavor of the pasta itself, ensuring each bite is savory and satisfying. After draining, it’s helpful to toss the pasta lightly with a bit of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together while you prepare the other components.

The Secret to Creamy Ricotta Layers

The ricotta mixture is the star of this baked dish, providing rich creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the tangy marinara sauce. Using fresh ricotta can elevate the entire dish; look for a brand that lists minimal ingredients. If you want a lighter version, you can use part-skim ricotta, though keep in mind that it may be slightly less creamy.

Mixing an egg into the ricotta helps bind the layers together and adds richness, creating a cohesive texture. Make sure to whisk thoroughly until there are no lumps. This not only improves the mouthfeel of the dish but also ensures even distribution of flavor throughout the baked ziti.

Customizing Your Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add grilled chicken, sausage, or sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms between the layers for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be mindful to pre-cook any added proteins to ensure they are safe to eat and have developed the right flavor profile.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute ziti with gluten-free pasta varieties available in stores. Just be aware that the cooking time may differ, so check the package directions for guidance. No matter the variation you choose, the layering technique remains the same, allowing for endless personalization.

Ingredients

For the Baked Ziti

12 oz ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
15 oz ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ziti and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Assemble the Ziti

In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Mix the drained pasta with the remaining marinara sauce. Layer half of the pasta in the dish, followed by half of the ricotta mixture and half of the mozzarella. Repeat the layers.

Bake

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh basil and serving.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider mixing in some red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce. If you have time, let the dish sit for an additional 10 minutes after baking to enhance the flavors.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can assemble Baked Ziti ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. After layering, cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.

If you want to prepare it further in advance, consider freezing the assembled ziti. Wrap the dish well and freeze for up to three months. To bake from frozen, simply preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 50-60 minutes, removing the foil for the last 15 minutes to achieve that golden, bubbly cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Ziti pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal. The freshness of a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the creamy ziti, in addition to adding a touch of acidity to the plate.

For a vegetarian-friendly option, consider serving the ziti with a side of roasted vegetables. It not only brings vibrant colors to your table but also complements the hearty flavors of the pasta. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top before serving can add a nice subtle kick, elevating the overall dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when baking ziti is excess moisture, which can lead to a soggy dish. To counter this, ensure that your marinara sauce isn't overly watery. If you find a particularly watery sauce, simmer it on the stove for a few extra minutes to reduce it before adding to your pasta.

Overcooked cheese can also be a concern. To prevent your mozzarella from becoming rubbery, be attentive while baking. The ideal visual cue is to remove the foil as soon as you see the cheese starting to bubble but before it begins to brown excessively. This will help maintain that perfect stretchy, gooey texture that we all love in cheesy pasta dishes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheeses like Gouda or Fontina for a unique flavor.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with foil.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I freeze Baked Ziti?

Yes, once cooled, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.