Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella

Introduction

Baked ziti with ricotta and mozzarella is the kind of comforting, family-style meal that feels like a warm hug. It’s hearty, gooey, flavorful, and incredibly simple to prepare. At Best Bread Machine, where wholesome, time-saving recipes take center stage, this classic Italian-American casserole is a beloved favorite. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd at a family gathering, baked ziti delivers delicious results every time.

This guide offers a step-by-step walkthrough to help you create a perfectly cheesy, golden-topped baked ziti dish at home, using wholesome ingredients and easy methods. It’s built with busy home bakers in mind—especially moms who value flavor, ease, and nourishment at the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic comfort food
• Easy to make ahead or freeze
• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
• Flexible with ingredients and substitutions
• Pairs beautifully with salads and homemade bread

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound (450g) ziti or penne pasta
• Salt for boiling water

For the Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage (optional for meat version)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Assembly:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Extra grated Parmesan for topping

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Skillet or saucepan for sauce
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Foil for covering

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until just al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package directions). Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.

Add ground beef or sausage if using, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through.

Stir in oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Mix the Ricotta Layer

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until smooth.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Layer as follows:

• Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom.
• Add half the cooked pasta.
• Spoon dollops of half the ricotta mixture over the pasta.
• Add a layer of sauce.
• Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella.
• Repeat the pasta, ricotta, sauce, and mozzarella layers.
• Finish with extra Parmesan on top.

5. Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Baked Ziti

• Don’t overcook pasta—al dente holds up best in the oven
• Let it rest before serving to allow layers to set
• Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor
• Swap ground meat for plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version
• Add chopped spinach or zucchini for a veggie boost

Make-Ahead and Freezer Instructions

Make Ahead:

• Assemble the casserole up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate.
• Bake straight from the fridge, adding 5-10 minutes to cook time.

Freeze:

• Assemble fully but don’t bake.
• Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 60-70 minutes, covered, then uncovered for 10-15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or homemade rolls
• Roasted vegetables
• A light dessert like lemon bars or fruit salad

Kid-Friendly Modifications

• Use only mozzarella and mild sauce for picky eaters
• Make in muffin tins for single-serve portions
• Let kids help layer the casserole

Variations to Try

• White Baked Ziti: Replace red sauce with a creamy béchamel
• Spicy Version: Add more chili flakes or hot sausage
• Extra Veggies: Mushrooms, bell peppers, eggplant
• Pesto Ziti: Add a few tablespoons of pesto to the ricotta layer

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta? Yes. Blend it slightly for a smoother texture.

Do I have to use meat? No. The dish is still delicious as a vegetarian meal.

How do I keep baked ziti from drying out? Use enough sauce and don’t overbake. Cover with foil until the final 10-15 minutes.

Can I make this gluten-free? Yes. Use gluten-free pasta and check that your tomato sauce is certified GF.

A Dish for Every Table

Baked ziti with ricotta and mozzarella is a humble yet celebratory dish. It brings people together and fills the home with warmth and aroma. At Best Bread Machine, we value these meaningful, everyday moments around the table. This recipe captures that feeling of homemade care without demanding hours in the kitchen.

With layers of creamy ricotta, hearty tomato sauce, and melty mozzarella, baked ziti is everything we love about home cooking: rich, flavorful, and served with love.

Conclusion

Baked ziti with ricotta and mozzarella is a timeless casserole that fits perfectly into modern family life. With flexible prep, familiar ingredients, and big flavor, it’s an easy go-to recipe that satisfies every time. From busy weekdays to potluck dinners, this dish delivers comfort and nourishment in every bite.

Let it be a part of your kitchen tradition—simple, satisfying, and always shared.