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: 12 oz ziti pasta; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

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I can’t get enough of this baked ziti with ricotta! Every time I prepare it, my kitchen fills with warmth and the incredible aroma of bubbling cheese and rich tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining friends. Not only is it satisfying and hearty, but the layers of cheesy goodness make it simply irresistible. Recipe experimenting has taught me that adding fresh herbs elevates the flavor beautifully, and I always keep some ricotta on hand for that creamy touch. You’ll love it as much as I do!

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-04-14T11:01:12.351Z

When I first tried making baked ziti, I wasn't sure how to layer the ingredients for the perfect balance of flavors. After a few attempts, I discovered that mixing the ricotta with fresh basil and a touch of garlic really enhanced the dish. It gave the ziti an extra layer of flavor that I had missed in my earlier tries.

Additionally, I learned that covering the dish with foil for the first half of baking keeps it moist while the final few minutes, uncovered, allows for that delightful golden crust on top. This is a game changer for achieving that perfect texture!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Creamy ricotta adds a luscious texture to each bite
Hearty dish packed with flavors that comforts the soul
Easy to prepare and perfect for family gatherings

Ingredient Insights

The key to this baked ziti is the quality of the ricotta cheese used. Opt for whole milk ricotta for a creamier texture that enriches each bite. If you're looking for a lighter option, part-skim ricotta will still provide that nice creaminess but with fewer calories. Don't hesitate to mix in some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the ricotta mixture; this will provide a burst of freshness and elevate the entire dish.

When selecting marinara sauce, aim for a brand with minimal additives for the best flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making your own sauce with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs simmered together. This can elevate your baked ziti from comforting to unforgettable, giving it a homemade touch that really shines through in every layer.

Layering Techniques

Layering is critical in achieving that perfect baked ziti. When you layer the ingredients, aim for a balance of sauce, cheese, and pasta in each layer. This will ensure that every bite contains a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, rather than just one overwhelming ingredient. Begin and end with a layer of marinara sauce topped with cheeses for a beautifully bubbly finish that creates a golden, inviting top crust.

Don't skimp on the cheese! A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan not only provides a fantastic flavor but also contributes to that deliciously stretchy, melty texture. Ensure you distribute the cheese evenly, so it creates a delightful golden crust once baked. If you’d like, toss in some provolone or fontina cheese for an extra layer of flavor! This combination ensures you'll have a satisfying and rich flavor experience.

Ingredients

For the Baked Ziti

12 oz ziti pasta
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.

Layer the Ingredients

In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked ziti over the sauce, then spread half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta. Pour a third of the marinara sauce over the ricotta.

Add More Cheese

Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over this layer. Repeat the layering process with the remaining ziti, ricotta, marinara sauce, and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

Bake

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

Serve

Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation with a side salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating sautéed vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms into the ricotta mixture or layering them within the ziti.

Make-Ahead Tips

Baked ziti is a great make-ahead dish. Prepare the entire recipe up to the baking point, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit for about 30 minutes at room temperature while you preheat the oven. This helps ensure even cooking throughout your dish, avoiding an overly cold center once baked.

For those wanting to meal prep, consider portioning your ziti into smaller baking dishes. This way, you can bake one while freezing the others for later use. Seal with aluminum foil, and it’ll last in the freezer for about two months. Just be sure to adjust the baking time when reheating frozen ziti, as it will take longer to heat through.

Serving Suggestions

Baked ziti shines as a main dish, but serving it alongside a fresh salad could really complement the flavors. A simple arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the cheese and sauce. Alternatively, garlic bread or a crusty Italian loaf can be fantastic for sopping up any leftover sauce on your plate, making each meal feel complete.

Don’t forget your finishing touches! Sprinkling fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving can brighten the dish visually and add a fresh note right before digging in. If you enjoy a kick, a drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will elevate your baked ziti, giving it a peppy flavor boost that will tantalize your taste buds.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the baked ziti the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese is a great alternative, and you can blend it to achieve a smoother texture. Cream cheese can also work, but it will alter the flavor slightly.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes, baked ziti freezes well. Ensure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

→ What types of pasta work well for baked ziti?

While ziti is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary.