This classic baked ziti with ricotta cheese is the ultimate comfort dish — rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and layers of gooey mozzarella baked until perfectly bubbly and golden. It’s hearty, satisfying, and made to bring everyone to the table.
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Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti with Ricotta Cheese
Few meals feel as cozy as this baked ziti. The creamy ricotta adds depth and softness, while the bubbling cheese crust delivers that satisfying first bite.
- Creamy, cheesy, and full of Italian flavor.
- Perfect for meal prep or family gatherings.
- Uses simple pantry staples.
- Freezes beautifully for later.
Love creamy comfort food? Try our Creamy Chicken Enchiladas next.
Ingredients You’ll Need For This Baked Ziti with Ricotta Cheese
This comforting casserole uses a few everyday ingredients to create layers of creamy, cheesy perfection.- Ziti pasta — 1 pound
- Olive oil — 2 tablespoons
- Ground beef — 1 pound
- Italian sausage — ½ pound (optional but flavorful)
- Garlic — 4 cloves, minced
- Crushed tomatoes — 28 ounces
- Tomato paste — 2 tablespoons
- Ricotta cheese — 15 ounces
- Mozzarella cheese — 2 cups, shredded
- Parmesan cheese — ½ cup, grated
- Egg — 1, lightly beaten
- Italian seasoning — 1 tablespoon
- Salt and black pepper — to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley — for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for rich, bubbling baked ziti perfection every time.
Step 1 – Cook the Past
Boil ziti in salted water until just al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2 – Make the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Add ground beef and sausage, breaking up with a spoon.
Once browned, add garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 3 – Mix the Ricotta Layer
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and half the parmesan. Stir until creamy.
Add a pinch of salt and pepper — this mixture gives your baked ziti its signature soft, cheesy layer.
Step 4 – Layer It Up
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of sauce.
Add half the pasta, spoon over ricotta mixture, and sprinkle mozzarella.
Repeat with the remaining pasta and sauce, finishing with mozzarella and parmesan on top.
Step 5 – Bake Until Golden
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook your pasta — it continues to soften as it bakes.
- Mix mozzarella into each layer for that perfect cheese pull.
- Add red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.
- Swap half the beef for sausage for deeper flavor.
- Let it rest before cutting so the layers stay firm.
Serving Ideas
Serve your baked ziti with ricotta cheese with warm garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad.
It’s hearty enough for a main dish, but pairs beautifully with a light side like sautéed spinach or roasted veggies.
For another easy, cheesy favorite, try our Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps Recipe.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Cool completely before storing.
Refrigerate up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly — add a splash of sauce if reheating from frozen.
Variations You Can Try
- Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Extra creamy: Stir a little heavy cream into your tomato sauce.
- Spicy: Add crushed red pepper or spicy Italian sausage.
- Lighter: Use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella.
Love easy casseroles? You’ll enjoy our Oven Baked Chicken Breast for a lighter alternative.
baked-ziti-with-ricotta-cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook ziti pasta in salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and toss with olive oil.
- In a skillet, cook beef and sausage until browned. Add garlic, tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasoning. Simmer 10–15 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, and parmesan. Mix until creamy.
- Layer sauce, pasta, ricotta, and mozzarella in a baking dish. Repeat layers.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes, uncovered for last 10 minutes to brown top.
Nutrition
Notes
Did you make this recipe? Share a photo and tag us — Follow us at @chopped-beef_official for more
Share a photo and tag us — Follow us at @chopped-beef_official for moreFrequently Asked Questions
Do you have to use ricotta in baked ziti?
Ricotta gives baked ziti its creamy texture, but you can substitute cottage cheese or mascarpone for a similar effect.
How long should baked ziti rest before serving?
Let it rest about 10 minutes after baking. This allows the cheese to set and makes serving easier.
Can baked ziti be made ahead?
Yes! Assemble the dish up to one day in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Bake directly from cold, adding 10 extra minutes to the cook time.
What’s the difference between lasagna and baked ziti?
Lasagna is layered with wide noodles, while baked ziti uses tubular pasta and mixes the sauce and cheese more freely for a rustic, homestyle texture.
Conclusion
This baked ziti with ricotta cheese is the ultimate crowd-pleaser — creamy, cheesy, hearty, and loaded with Italian flavor. It’s easy enough for weeknights and comforting enough for company.
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