Baked Tomato Ricotta Pasta

Name: Baked Tomato Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz. pasta (preferably penne or rigatoni); 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 container (15 oz.) ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love whipping up Baked Tomato Ricotta Pasta for a cozy dinner at home. The blend of rich tomatoes and creamy ricotta creates a delightful harmony that’s hard to resist. Whenever I'm craving comfort food, this dish never fails to lift my spirits. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With the herbs infusing their scents and flavors into the dish, you’ll experience an enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes. Let’s dive into this scrumptious experience!

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:10:28.772Z

When I first encountered Baked Tomato Ricotta Pasta, it was love at first bite. I experimented with various cheese combinations but found that the creamy ricotta paired with the tangy tomatoes was the ultimate game changer. The dish bakes to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, and I can tell you that no meal feels more satisfying than this one!

One key tip I discovered is to use fresh herbs, like basil or oregano, right before serving. Not only does this enhance the flavor profile, but it also adds a pop of color that elevates the whole presentation. Trust me, using fresh ingredients makes all the difference in this recipe!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta that enriches every bite
Savory explosion from roasted tomatoes
Simple preparation that yields impressive results

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of pasta in Baked Tomato Ricotta Pasta can greatly influence the dish's overall texture. Penne or rigatoni are ideal because their cylindrical shapes hold the sauce and cheese well, allowing for a delightful bite. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute with gluten-free pasta, but be mindful of adjusting cooking times as they often require less time in boiling water to avoid becoming mushy.

Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor profile to this dish. While the recipe calls for dried basil and oregano, feel free to use fresh herbs if you have them on hand; just double the quantity, as fresh herbs are less concentrated in flavor. Fresh basil not only enhances the dish’s aroma but also brightens up the rich flavors, enriching the overall experience.

Baking for Optimal Flavor

When preparing this baked dish, it's important to preheat your oven to the correct temperature of 375°F (190°C) to achieve the desired bubbly and golden cheese topping. If your oven has hot spots, consider rotating the baking dish halfway through the cooking time to ensure even baking. You want the cheese to be fully melted with beautifully golden edges—not burnt—so keep an eye on it during the last few minutes.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunchy texture, topping the dish with breadcrumbs before baking can add an appealing contrast to the creamy pasta. Combine breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and some grated parmesan, then sprinkle it over the mozzarella just before it goes into the oven for an irresistible golden crust.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious dish:

Ingredients

12 oz. pasta (preferably penne or rigatoni)
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 container (15 oz.) ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling
Fresh basil for garnish

Ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready for baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly baked dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Tomato Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the tomato mixture, and gently fold in the ricotta cheese. Mix until everything is well combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Your mouth-watering Baked Tomato Ricotta Pasta is ready to be served!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding in some sautéed spinach or zucchini to the pasta mixture before baking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Baked Tomato Ricotta Pasta is a fantastic make-ahead option. You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake it. This not only saves time during a busy weeknight but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully as they sit together overnight.

If you have leftovers after serving, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to retain moisture for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You may also microwave individual portions if you're in a hurry.

Flavor Variations and Customization

One great aspect of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding veggies such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the tomato mixture for additional nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces to ensure they cook evenly alongside the pasta.

For a protein boost, consider incorporating cooked chicken, sausage, or even beans for a vegetarian alternative. Simply mix these into the pasta before baking. This addition can transform the dish into a heartier meal, making it suitable for a larger family gathering or potluck.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or additional mozzarella for a creamier texture.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! Just make sure to use vegetable broth if you choose to add any liquids.

→ Can I prepare this pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.