Creamy and Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ricotta Recipe

ByHuma Family Dinner

Few dishes embody the soul of comfort food quite like baked ziti, a beloved Italian-American casserole known for its rich layers and irresistible cheesy goodness. This hearty creation transforms simple pantry staples into a warm, golden dish that feels both familiar and indulgent. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or festive occasions, baked ziti offers a harmonious blend of creamy ricotta, tangy marinara, and tender pasta. Its universal appeal and satisfying flavour make it a timeless favourite in kitchens around the world.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cups marinara or pasta sauce
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup sour cream or heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped

How to Make Baked Ziti?

Preparing baked ziti begins with cooking the pasta until just al dente, ensuring it remains firm enough to hold its shape once baked. After draining, a light toss in olive oil prevents sticking and keeps the texture smooth. Meanwhile, a flavourful sauce comes together by sauteing garlic, adding marinara, and seasoning it gently until the flavours blend into a rich, hearty base.

The ricotta mixture is then prepared by combining ricotta, Parmesan, and part of the mozzarella, creating a creamy layer that gives the casserole its signature texture. Once the pasta is folded into the sauce, the dish is assembled in layers sauce, pasta, ricotta dollops, and cheese before being baked until bubbling, golden, and irresistibly aromatic.

Cooking Time

Baked ziti requires about 20 minutes of covered baking followed by an additional 10–15 minutes uncovered to achieve a beautifully melted and golden top. Including preparation steps such as pasta boiling, sauce simmering, and layering, the entire process typically takes 45–60 minutes, making it ideal for a filling weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of baked ziti provides approximately 460 calories, offering a satisfying balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. With about 25 grams of protein and 45 grams of carbohydrates per serving, it fuels the body with sustained energy. The dish contains around 18 grams of fat and 3 grams of fiber, along with 750 milligrams of sodium. While indulgent, it can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a wholesome, comforting meal.

Suggestions and Variation

Baked ziti is highly versatile, allowing endless creative touches to match personal tastes. Adding sauteed mushrooms, spinach, or Italian sausage introduces depth and richness, while using whole-milk ricotta elevates creaminess. For an even more luxurious texture, a spoonful of mascarpone or a splash of heavy cream can be mixed into the sauce. Garnishing with fresh basil or parsley and serving alongside garlic bread and a crisp salad enhances the overall dining experience.

Seasonal Relevance

This classic baked pasta dish remains a comforting choice throughout the year, though it shines especially during cooler seasons when warm, hearty meals are most welcome. Its generous portions and crowd pleasing flavours make it perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or casual dinner parties. With timeless appeal and adaptable ingredients, baked ziti fits seamlessly into seasonal menus no matter the occasion.

Baked Ziti with Ricotta Recipe
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Baked Ziti with Ricotta Recipe

Recipe by Huma
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

35

minutes
Calories

510

kcal
Total time

50

minutes

This Creamy and Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ricotta is the ultimate comfort food rich, bubbly, and irresistibly cheesy. Layers of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, flavourful marinara, and melted mozzarella come together in this classic Italian American favourite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or when you want a cozy homemade meal that tastes like it came straight from an Italian kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ziti pasta

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 3 cups marinara or pasta sauce

  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese

  • ½ cup sour cream or heavy cream (for extra creaminess)

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 large egg (optional, for ricotta mix)

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Directions

  • Preheat Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Cook Pasta: Boil ziti in salted water until just al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  • Cook Sauce (if using meat): In a skillet, cook ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Add garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, mix ricotta, sour cream (or heavy cream), egg, half the mozzarella, and half the Parmesan until creamy.
  • Assemble the Ziti:
  • Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
  • Add half the pasta, half the ricotta mixture, and a layer of sauce.
  • Repeat with remaining pasta, ricotta, and sauce.
  • Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  • Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and golden.
  • Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve warm.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • For extra richness, add a layer of béchamel or Alfredo sauce before baking.
  • You can replace ricotta with cottage cheese if preferred.
  • Make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

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