Baked Ziti with Ricotta

Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta Recipe (Cozy, Cheesy, Crowd-Pleasing Dinner)

There’s something magical about baked ziti. It’s that perfect in-between of lasagna and spaghetti—no fuss, all flavor, and just the kind of cozy, cheesy meal we all crave after a long day. This Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta recipe is everything a comforting pasta bake should be: rich, creamy, saucy, and bubbling with melted cheese.

Whether you’re feeding your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this baked ziti never disappoints. It’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and freezer-approved. Let’s dig in.

Save

Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti

  • Hearty, cheesy, and comforting
  • Easier than lasagna, just as satisfying
  • Great for feeding a crowd
  • Make-ahead and freezer-friendly
  • Perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday dinner

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
  • 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Serving Size: 6-8Prep Time: 15 minutesCook Time: 30 minutesTotal Time: 45 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. If using ground beef or sausage, add it and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let simmer for 5–10 minutes.

Step 3: Mix the ricotta

In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble

Preheat oven to 375°F. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the pasta, then spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture across the top. Sprinkle with half the mozzarella. Add more sauce, the rest of the pasta, remaining ricotta, and mozzarella. Top with Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for the Best Baked Ziti

  • Undercook the pasta slightly. It’ll finish cooking in the oven, so al dente is key.
  • Use whole milk ricotta. It adds the best creamy texture and flavor.
  • Mix up the cheese. Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, but provolone or fontina are great extras.
  • Let it rest before serving. This helps everything set up and makes slicing easier.
  • Make it ahead. You can assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

Variations to Try

Make it your own with these easy twists:

  • Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
  • Spicy: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  • Extra cheesy: Add a layer of provolone slices or a cheese blend for gooey goodness.
  • Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
  • Lighten it up: Use part-skim ricotta and turkey sausage for a lighter version.
Save

FAQs About Baked Ziti

Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Penne, rigatoni, or even rotini all work well if you don’t have ziti.

Can I freeze baked ziti?
Definitely. You can freeze it before or after baking. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, covered, at 375°F for about 1 hour.

Do I have to use meat?
Not at all. It’s delicious with just sauce and cheese, or you can load it up with veggies for a vegetarian version.

How long does baked ziti last in the fridge?
It’ll keep for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
You can. Blend it if you want a smoother texture. It’s a popular substitute that works well in baked pasta dishes.

Related Post: Baked Feta Pasta Recipe

Final Thoughts

This Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta is one of those classic comfort food recipes that never goes out of style. It’s hearty, cheesy, and comes together with minimal effort—perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you need a little pasta love.

If you’re craving something warm and satisfying that’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table, this baked ziti is your go-to.