Baked Ziti with Ricotta
Baked Ziti with Ricotta is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and packed with savory flavors that make every bite a delight. This classic Italian-American dish brings together tender pasta, a hearty tomato sauce with ground turkey, and creamy ricotta cheese, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s a fantastic family meal that’s straightforward to prepare and sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this Baked Ziti with Ricotta will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Why I Love This Recipe
What makes this Baked Ziti with Ricotta stand out is its balance of flavors and textures. The ground turkey adds a lighter protein option without sacrificing richness, while the combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a luscious, creamy filling that’s simply irresistible. The sauce, seasoned with oregano and basil, brings a fragrant, herbaceous note that complements the cheese perfectly. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to pull together. I love how versatile it is—you can tweak the herbs or cheese to match what you have on hand, and it always turns out delicious.
Your Shopping Guide
- Ziti Pasta (12 oz) – This tubular pasta is perfect for holding onto the sauce and cheese, but penne or rigatoni can work as well.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing the meat and veggies.
- Ground Turkey (1 pound) – Choose lean ground turkey for a healthier twist without losing flavor.
- Small Onion (1, chopped) – Fresh onion adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Essential for that aromatic base.
- Crushed Tomatoes (28 oz can) – Look for no-salt-added or plain crushed tomatoes for a fresh tomato flavor.
- Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon) – Adds a classic Italian herbal note.
- Dried Basil (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the sauce with a sweet, peppery aroma.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste, to bring out all the flavors.
- Ricotta Cheese (15 oz) – The star creamy cheese that gives the baked ziti its signature texture.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup shredded) – For melty, stretchy goodness.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup grated) – Adds a sharp, nutty finish.
- Fresh Basil – Optional, for garnish and a fresh pop of color and flavor.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
- Large Pot – To boil the pasta.
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan – For cooking the ground turkey and sauce.
- Mixing Bowl – To combine the ricotta with some seasonings if desired.
- Baking Dish (9×13 inch) – To assemble and bake the ziti.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring the sauce and mixing the pasta.
- Colander – To drain the pasta.
Baked Ziti with Ricotta in Steps
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add 12 ounces of ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 small chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Turkey
Add 1 pound ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with your spoon and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Herbs
Pour in the 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes. Stir in 1 teaspoon dried oregano and 1 teaspoon dried basil. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Ricotta and Pasta
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with 15 ounces ricotta cheese. Mix gently until the pasta is well coated and creamy.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the turkey tomato sauce. Add half of the ricotta-coated pasta, then spoon over half of the remaining sauce. Sprinkle half of the 1 cup shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers, finishing with cheese on top.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant finish.
Holiday & Seasonal Touches
- Add roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, seasonal twist.
- Swap ground turkey for ground lamb or beef during festive occasions to deepen the flavor.
- Incorporate spinach or kale into the ricotta mixture for a pop of green and added nutrients.
- Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy contrast.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Flavor Logic
The secret to this Baked Ziti with Ricotta lies in layering flavors and textures. The sweetness of the crushed tomatoes is enhanced by the warmth of oregano and basil. Using ground turkey keeps the dish light but flavorful, absorbing the herb-infused sauce beautifully. Ricotta cheese provides a creamy, mild base that contrasts with the stretchy mozzarella and sharp Parmesan, creating a satisfying, multi-dimensional flavor profile. Fresh basil adds brightness and a peppery finish that lifts the entire dish.
Storing Tips & Timelines
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
- You can freeze baked ziti for up to 3 months. Freeze before baking for best results; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
- If freezing after baking, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While 12 ounces of ziti is traditional, you can substitute penne, rigatoni, or even small shells. Just ensure the pasta holds sauce well and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground turkey and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a hearty vegetarian version. You can also use plant-based meat substitutes if preferred.
How do I prevent the baked ziti from drying out?
Make sure to use enough sauce to keep the pasta moist, and cover the dish with foil during the initial baking phase. Removing the foil at the end helps achieve a bubbly, golden cheese crust without drying out the interior.
Can I prepare baked ziti in advance?
Yes. Assemble the dish up to a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
Quick Weeknight Wins
- For a lighter pasta option, check out Pasta With Fresh Tomato Sauce And Basil, a bright and simple dish perfect for busy evenings.
- If you’re craving something cheesy and seasonal, try Cheesy Pumpkin Lasagna Roll Ups, a unique twist on comfort food favorites.
The Takeaway
Baked Ziti with Ricotta is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines hearty protein, rich cheeses, and a flavorful tomato sauce into a comforting casserole. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive for guests, and it offers plenty of room for customization. From the tender pasta to the creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella, every bite delivers warmth and richness. Keep this recipe in your collection for those moments when you want a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal fuss.
This dish proves that with a few quality ingredients and a little love, you can create a timeless classic that everyone will adore. Whether you’re serving it alongside a crisp salad or pairing it with garlic bread, Baked Ziti with Ricotta makes mealtime memorable and delicious.
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Baked Ziti with Ricotta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add 12 ounces of ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 small chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add 1 pound ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with your spoon and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour in the 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes. Stir in 1 teaspoon dried oregano and 1 teaspoon dried basil. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with 15 ounces ricotta cheese. Mix gently until the pasta is well coated and creamy.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the turkey tomato sauce. Add half of the ricotta-coated pasta, then spoon over half of the remaining sauce. Sprinkle half of the 1 cup shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers, finishing with cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant finish.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze before baking for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
- For a vegetarian version, omit ground turkey and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
