Name: Baked Ziti with Ricotta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese (part-skim); 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach (optional); 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

This comforting and healthy Baked Ziti with Ricotta recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner. Featuring tender pasta, flavorful marinara, and creamy ricotta, it’s a lighter take on a classic Italian dish. Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, it’s an irresistible crowd-pleaser your family will love.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Undercook the pasta slightly since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Layer Strategically: Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
Cheese Melting Tip: Use a mix of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan for a gooey, golden top.
Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top after baking for a vibrant finish.
Prep Ahead: Assemble the dish earlier in the day, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Ziti with Ricotta is the ultimate comfort food! It strikes a balance between indulgence and nutrition by using whole-grain pasta, a rich yet light ricotta blend, and a hearty marinara packed with vegetables. The layers of cheesy goodness and flavorful sauce make it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. You’ll love how easy it is to customize to suit your taste or dietary needs. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making leftovers a treat!

Yield: Serves 6

Baked Ziti with Ricotta

A healthy baked ziti recipe featuring creamy ricotta, hearty marinara, and gooey mozzarella, perfect for a comforting dinner.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 1 hour

Ingredients

1 pound ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese (part-skim)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and spinach (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Mix Ricotta Blend: In a bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan. Mix until smooth.
Assemble the Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Add half the cooked pasta, then spread half the ricotta mixture and marinara. Repeat the layers, ending with remaining marinara and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Garnish and Serve: Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a fresh touch.

Notes

Let the dish cool slightly before slicing for clean servings.
Customize the marinara with chopped veggies for added texture and flavor.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 363Total Fat 20gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 53mgSodium 1040mgCarbohydrates 25gFiber 3gSugar 7gProtein 20g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredient Notes

Ziti Pasta: Whole-grain or gluten-free options work well for added nutrition or dietary restrictions.
Marinara Sauce: Opt for a no-sugar-added, low-sodium brand, or make your own for ultimate flavor control.
Ricotta Cheese: Choose part-skim ricotta to keep the dish lighter without sacrificing creaminess.
Mozzarella Cheese: Use freshly shredded mozzarella for better melting.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth. Grate fresh for the best flavor.
Spinach (Optional): A handful of fresh or frozen spinach boosts nutrition.
Garlic and Onion: Essential for building a flavorful sauce base.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Twist: Add roasted veggies like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms.
Protein Boost: Incorporate cooked ground turkey, chicken sausage, or tofu crumbles for extra protein.
Vegan Version: Use vegan ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan alternatives.
Low-Carb Option: Swap the ziti for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage for heat.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Freezer: Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
Meal Prep: Divide into individual portions before freezing for easy grab-and-heat meals.