Baked Ziti with Ricotta & Mozzarella

Baked Ziti with Ricotta & Mozzarella is a classic Italian-American comfort dish, loaded with layers of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted mozzarella. It’s the perfect hearty meal for family dinners, potlucks, or casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Cheesy: Ricotta and mozzarella provide the perfect balance of creaminess and stretch.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble in advance and bake when ready.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A classic that appeals to all ages.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples and easy-to-find items come together beautifully.
• Comforting and Satisfying: A warm, baked pasta dish that’s filling and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti until just al dente, about 8–9 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
   Add ground beef or sausage, if using, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce, basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.

3. Make the Ricotta Mixture
   In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, a pinch of salt, and black pepper until combined.

4. Assemble the Ziti
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   In a large baking dish (9×13-inch), spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked ziti, then spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture over the pasta. Top with half the remaining sauce and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella.
   Add the rest of the ziti, the remaining sauce, and finish with the remaining mozzarella.

5. Bake
   Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

6. Serve
   Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit the meat and add sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
• Cheese Swap: Use cottage cheese in place of ricotta, or add provolone for more flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and confirm sauce ingredients are GF.
• Make It Meaty: Use a mix of beef and pork or add pancetta for a richer taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the unbaked assembled ziti or leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking or reheating.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Do I have to use ricotta?

Ricotta is traditional, but you can substitute with cottage cheese or mascarpone.

Can I bake this without meat?

Absolutely, it’s just as delicious meatless.

What pasta can I use besides ziti?

Penne, rigatoni, or most short tube-shaped pasta work well.

How do I keep it from drying out?

Don’t overbake, and keep it covered for most of the baking time.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use two 9×13 pans or one large deep pan and extend baking time slightly.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes. Wrap tightly and freeze before or after baking.

Should I add more sauce?

If you prefer it saucier, add up to ½ cup more marinara.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or eggplant are great additions.

What cheese melts best on top?

Mozzarella is classic, but you can mix in provolone or fontina for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Baked Ziti with Ricotta & Mozzarella is a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and always a hit. Whether for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this classic baked pasta never fails to please—and it’s even better the next day.