Name: The Best Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese (Postpartum Ziti) Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti (or penne/rigatoni if ziti is unavailable); Olive oil, for cooking; 1 pound mild Italian sausage; 5 garlic cloves, smashed and minced; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 (28-ounce) can tomato sauce; 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream, cold; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1 pound cottage cheese; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, chopped into 1/4 inch cubes; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, chopped into 1/4 inch cubes; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; More chopped basil, for garnish after baking

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 77 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful pasta dish that feels like a warm hug, then you have to try The Best Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese (Postpartum Ziti) Recipe. This rich and creamy casserole combines tender pasta with a savory Italian sausage tomato sauce, a luscious cottage cheese blend, and a golden melted mozzarella topping that’s simply irresistible. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even as a special meal during those busy postpartum days when you need something satisfying and wholesome with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The first image shows a clear glass baking dish filled with three layers: the bottom layer is pale yellow pasta with a smooth texture, the middle layer is a chunky mixture of minced meat and tomato sauce, bright red with visible herbs, and the top layer is a rich, vibrant red tomato sauce with a thick, slightly coarse texture. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. The second image shows the same clear glass baking dish with multiple layers, starting with a base layer of red sauce topped with shredded pale yellow cheese scattered evenly, and on top there are many small, pale yellow cheese cubes spread all over, creating a contrast in texture and color. This dish is also on a white marbled surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to making The Best Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese (Postpartum Ziti) Recipe taste incredible. Each component adds its own magic—from the tender pasta and hearty sausage to the fresh herbs and creamy cheeses, everything works together for a perfectly balanced dish.

1 pound ziti: The ideal pasta for holding on to sauce, but penne or rigatoni works well too if you can’t find ziti.
Olive oil: Just a little to brown the sausage and bring out rich flavors in the sauce.
1 pound mild Italian sausage: Provides a savory, slightly spiced backbone to the red sauce.
5 garlic cloves, smashed and minced: Garlic adds aromatic depth and a punch of flavor.
2 teaspoons dried oregano: Classic Italian herb that complements the tomato sauce perfectly.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a subtle sweet note to the sauce.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Offers just the right amount of gentle heat.
1 (28-ounce) can tomato sauce: Forms the rich and luscious base of the red sauce.
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes: Adds texture and freshness to the sauce.
1 teaspoon sugar: Balances acidity in the tomatoes perfectly.
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped: Brings a fresh, fragrant finish to the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream, cold: Makes the sauce silky smooth and indulgent.
1 teaspoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the cream for perfect texture.
2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Binds the cottage cheese mixture beautifully.
1 pound cottage cheese: The star ingredient for creaminess and a lighter alternative to ricotta.
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds sharp, nutty flavor to the cheese mix.
1 cup mozzarella cheese, chopped into 1/4 inch cubes: Melts into gooey, stringy goodness inside the casserole.
1 cup mozzarella cheese, chopped into 1/4 inch cubes (for topping): Creates a bubbly and golden crust.
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping): Adds an extra layer of savory flavor on top.
More chopped basil (for garnish): Fresh green flecks that brighten the finished dish.

How to Make The Best Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese (Postpartum Ziti) Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your ziti until it’s just al dente — tender but still with a slight bite. This ensures the pasta won’t get mushy after baking. Drain it well and toss with a splash of olive oil to keep the noodles separated and shiny.

Step 2: Prepare the Red Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and brown the mild Italian sausage, breaking it up finely as it cooks. When the sausage is cooked through, add the smashed and minced garlic along with oregano, dried basil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook for a couple of minutes until fragrant. Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, then stir in a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes to let all the flavors meld beautifully. Stir in the fresh chopped basil just before removing from heat for a pop of fresh aroma.

Step 3: Make the Cream Mixture

While the sauce simmers, whisk together cold heavy cream and cornstarch in a small bowl until fully combined. Heat the mixture gently in a saucepan over low heat until it thickens slightly — this luscious cream will add incredible richness and silkiness to the baked ziti.

Step 4: Combine Cottage Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, mix the lightly beaten eggs, cottage cheese, grated Parmesan, and cubed mozzarella. This creamy blend gives the casserole a velvety texture that’s lighter than traditional ricotta versions but just as satisfying.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the red sauce and the creamy heavy cream mixture, folding gently to coat every noodle. Then fold in the cottage cheese mixture, making sure the cheese cubes stay intact for pockets of melty goodness. Transfer the entire mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly.

Step 6: Add the Cheese Topping and Bake

Scatter the remaining cubed mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until the cheese topping is bubbly, golden, and slightly crisp around the edges. Allow the baked ziti to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving — this lets the flavors settle and makes slicing easier.

How to Serve The Best Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese (Postpartum Ziti) Recipe

The first image shows a metal pot filled with cooked tube-shaped pasta in light yellow color, with some steam visible, and a wooden spoon resting inside the pot. The background is a white marbled surface. The second image shows a white bowl filled with a mixture of yellow liquid (likely beaten eggs) topped with white cottage cheese or ricotta, with a blue spoon partially dipped into the mixture. This bowl is also on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped basil right after baking adds a vibrant herbal lift and pretty green contrast to the warm cheesy tones. You could also drizzle a little high-quality olive oil or offer crushed red pepper flakes for those who love a bit of heat.

Side Dishes

This baked ziti pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables. Garlic bread or a crusty artisan loaf is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce and cream.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more festive occasion, serve this dish family-style in the casserole dish at the table and let everyone help themselves. Alternatively, try individual servings baked in small ramekins for a charming presentation that’s great for entertaining or meal prep.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover baked ziti is a real treat! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors develop even more after resting overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal.

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta casserole either before or after baking. If freezing pre-baked, assemble the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. For leftovers, cool completely, portion into airtight containers or freezer bags, and freeze up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight first, then bake covered at 350°F (175°C) until heated throughout, usually about 20-30 minutes. Adding a splash of water or extra cream can help maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese?

Absolutely! While cottage cheese keeps this dish lighter and creamier, ricotta can be used for a richer and more traditional texture. Just choose whole-milk ricotta for the best results.

Is this dish suitable for freezing and meal prep?

Yes! The Best Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese (Postpartum Ziti) Recipe freezes beautifully and is perfect for making ahead. Just be sure to cool before freezing and thaw thoroughly before reheating.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Sure thing! You can swap the Italian sausage for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a meatless sausage alternative. Just season your sauce well to keep it flavorful.

What type of pasta works best if I can’t find ziti?

Penne or rigatoni are excellent substitutes since they’re similarly shaped and hold onto sauce well, ensuring every bite is deliciously coated.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some kick, incorporate red pepper flakes into the sauce while cooking the sausage or add spicy Italian sausage instead of mild. You could also serve with hot sauce on the side.

Final Thoughts

With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and comforting vibes, The Best Baked Ziti with Cottage Cheese (Postpartum Ziti) Recipe quickly becomes a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re cooking for dinner or looking for an amazing postpartum meal packed with flavor and ease, this baked ziti truly shines. Give it a go and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!