Baked Tomato Ricotta Pasta

Name: Baked Tomato Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni); 2 cups cherry tomatoes; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Baked Tomato Ricotta Pasta because it's an effortless dish that bursts with flavor and comfort. The combination of creamy ricotta and juicy tomatoes creates a delightful harmony, and the cheesy topping makes it all the more tempting. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy gathering with friends. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to prepare, so I can spend more time enjoying the meal and less time in the kitchen. You won't believe how easy it is to whip up this delicious pasta!

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:22:24.078Z

When I first made Baked Tomato Ricotta Pasta, I was astonished at how such simple ingredients could create such a rich and satisfying dish. The creaminess of the ricotta, combined with the freshness of the tomato sauce, brought an unexpected depth to the flavors. I discovered that tossing the pasta in the sauce before baking helps to really marry the flavors, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.

One tip I often use is to roast the tomatoes until they burst, as this intensifies their sweetness and gives the dish an incredible aroma. Adding fresh basil just before serving elevates the entire experience with a pop of freshness. It’s a dish that always impresses!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta creates a luxurious texture
Bursting with flavor from roasted tomatoes
Quick and easy preparation for busy nights
Perfect for serving at gatherings or family meals

      

The Importance of Timing

Cooking the pasta to al dente is critical in this baked dish. If you overcook the pasta, it can turn mushy after baking. Keep an eye on the cooking time, usually around 8-10 minutes for penne or rigatoni. To check for doneness, taste a piece a minute or two before the package time is up. You want it to firm up slightly while baking in the sauce, ensuring the perfect texture.

When sautéing the cherry tomatoes, aim for a medium heat. This method prevents burning while allowing the tomatoes to burst and release their juices. You’ll know they’re ready when they start to look soft and shiny, creating a fresh, flavorful sauce. If you find the heat is too high, consider lowering it slightly to achieve that glossy finish without charring.

Ingredient Insights

Ricotta cheese is the star here, lending a creamy texture that complements the robust flavors of the tomatoes. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, consider using part-skim ricotta or blending it with a bit of low-fat Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. That said, don’t skip the cheese—its unique moisture level helps bind the pasta and creates a rich backdrop for all the ingredients.

Using a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan provides both creaminess and depth of flavor. Mozzarella melts beautifully, giving that gooey texture on top, while Parmesan adds a salty sharpness. If you're short on one type of cheese, feel free to substitute with another similar cheese, like Gouda or Gruyère, to achieve a delightful cheesy crust.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Baked Tomato Ricotta Pasta:

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
2 cups cherry tomatoes
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure you have all the ingredients ready before starting to make the cooking process smoother.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Baked Tomato Ricotta Pasta:

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 skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper.

Cook until the tomatoes start to burst.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture and ricotta cheese. Stir until well combined.

Assemble and Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious and hearty Baked Tomato Ricotta Pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or sautéed spinach to the pasta mixture. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or crusty garlic bread.

Make-Ahead Tips

This pasta bake can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover the dish tightly with foil. When ready to bake, remove the foil and give it an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven to ensure it heats through fully. This way, you can easily prepare dinner in advance for busy evenings.

To freeze, prepare the dish but don't bake it yet. Instead, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Keep in mind that frozen foods tend to lose moisture, so consider adding a splash of water to the sauce before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving this Baked Tomato Ricotta Pasta with a light arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. The peppery notes of arugula contrast beautifully with the creamy pasta, making for a well-rounded dining experience. You might also add some toasted garlic bread on the side to soak up any remaining sauce - it's a hit!

If you want to elevate your dish even further, a sprinkle of chili flakes can add a burst of heat and complexity to the flavor profile. Fresh lemon zest can also brighten the dish before serving, enhancing the overall freshness and counterbalancing the richness of the cheese.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or farfalle.

→ Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you don't have ricotta, you can try cottage cheese or cream cheese for a similar texture.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pasta and sauce in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake when ready to serve.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.