The Best Baked Ziti with Ricotta: A Comforting Italian Classic

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy Italian dish that’s both hearty and satisfying, baked ziti with ricotta is your answer. This crowd-pleasing favorite combines perfectly cooked ziti pasta with a luscious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection in a rich tomato sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this baked pasta dish is easy to assemble, make-ahead friendly, and sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Baked ziti with ricotta is the ultimate comfort food that brings the flavors of a traditional Italian lasagna without all the layering fuss. It’s creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying—perfect for feeding a hungry family or hosting a dinner party. Thanks to simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s also incredibly beginner-friendly. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a freezer-friendly option, this recipe has you covered.

Essential Ingredients for a Creamy, Cheesy Baked Ziti

• Ziti Pasta: The base of the dish. Its tubular shape captures sauce and cheese beautifully.
• Ricotta Cheese: Brings creamy richness and a smooth texture to the baked layers.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Adds that iconic stretchy, melty cheese layer we all love.
• Spaghetti Sauce: Provides the tomato base with a touch of Italian herbs and acidity.
• Parmesan Cheese: Finishes the dish with a nutty, salty bite.
• Egg: Helps bind the cheese mixture together for a firmer filling after baking.
• Salted Water: Used to boil the pasta, enhancing its flavor from the inside out.

Ingredient Swaps for Every Pantry and Preference

• Pasta Type: No ziti? Penne or rigatoni are great substitutes for similar texture and sauce absorption.
• Cheese Options: Cottage cheese can replace ricotta for a lighter version. Use provolone instead of mozzarella for a sharper taste.
• Sauce Variations: Marinara or tomato basil sauce works just as well as classic spaghetti sauce.
• Protein Add-Ins: Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to make it heartier.

How to Make Baked Ziti with Ricotta Step by Step

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente, then drain and rinse under cool water to stop cooking.
3. Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, one beaten egg, and 1½ cups of spaghetti sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Dish: Transfer the ziti mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over the top and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is slightly golden.
6. Let It Rest: Allow the baked ziti with ricotta to rest for 15 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and enhances flavor.

Helpful Tips to Perfect Your Baked Ziti with Ricotta

• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep the pasta slightly undercooked (al dente) since it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Layer Flavors: Use seasoned spaghetti sauce or add a pinch of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or chili flakes to the cheese mixture for more depth.
• Cheese Strategy: Mix some mozzarella inside the pasta, but save extra to sprinkle on top for that golden-brown finish.
• Let It Rest: Resting time is crucial! It prevents the dish from being runny and helps achieve clean slices.
• Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What to Serve with Baked Ziti & Fun Variations to Try

Perfect Pairings

• Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it’s the perfect scoop companion.
• Caesar Salad: Its creamy tang balances the richness of baked ziti with ricotta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Adds nutrients and color to your plate.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Baked Ziti: Add crushed red pepper or hot Italian sausage.
• Vegetarian Version: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free ziti and double-check your sauce for additives.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake straight from the fridge, adding 10 extra minutes to cooking time.

A Taste of Italy at Your Table

This baked ziti with ricotta recipe brings the warmth and tradition of Italian cuisine right into your home. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, feeding a crowd, or prepping meals for the week, this dish is a reliable go-to. The creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and robust sauce come together in a perfect pasta bake that feels like a hug in every bite.

Make it once, and it’s guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Wrapping It All Up: Why Baked Ziti with Ricotta Should Be Your Next Meal

Baked ziti with ricotta is more than just a pasta bake—it’s a celebration of bold Italian flavors, creamy cheese layers, and soul-warming comfort. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this dish is approachable, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table, offering comfort with every cheesy forkful.

Make it once and you’ll find yourself coming back to this baked ziti with ricotta recipe again and again. From easy weeknight dinners to holiday potlucks, it’s a no-fail favorite that deserves a permanent place in your recipe box.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Q1: Can I make baked ziti with ricotta ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If baking from cold, add 10–15 minutes to the oven time to ensure it heats through completely.

Q2: Can I freeze baked ziti with ricotta?
Absolutely. Prepare and assemble the dish, then wrap it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F for about 60–75 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Q3: How do I keep baked ziti from drying out?
Make sure to use enough sauce when mixing and topping your ziti. Covering the dish with foil during the first 20 minutes of baking can help trap moisture and prevent dryness. Uncover for the final 10 minutes to brown the cheese.

Q4: What’s the best ricotta to use in baked ziti?
Full-fat ricotta cheese yields the creamiest texture and richest flavor. For a lighter version, part-skim ricotta works well too. Be sure to drain any excess liquid before mixing to avoid a watery bake.

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