There’s nothing quite like diving into a bubbling casserole dish of baked ziti—loaded with cheese, rich tomato sauce, and tender pasta. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping for a dinner party, or craving some warm, comforting food, this baked ziti recipe delivers all the nostalgic Italian-American vibes in every bite.
This dish combines simple ingredients with bold flavors to create something absolutely satisfying.
Perfect for make-ahead meals, casual weeknight dinners, or Sunday supper with loved ones, baked ziti is that go-to classic that never lets you down.
It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor—making it the ultimate comfort food favorite for all ages.
I first fell in love with baked ziti during college, when a roommate’s mom dropped off a foil-covered pan one chilly weekend.
We popped it in the oven after a long day, and the aroma that filled our tiny apartment was unforgettable.
Each cheesy, saucy bite felt like a warm hug, and from that moment on, it became a personal favorite.
Over the years, I’ve tested different versions—some with meat, others vegetarian, some spicy, others creamy.
But this version you’ll find below is my perfected go-to: rich, hearty, and ridiculously easy to throw together.
Why You’ll Love This
1. It’s Comfort Food at Its Best
Baked ziti is the ultimate cozy dinner.
The melted layers of mozzarella and ricotta, paired with a savory marinara sauce, create a dish that’s deeply satisfying.
Each bite is a balance of textures and flavors, from the slightly crisped edges to the creamy cheese center.
It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.
2. Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
This recipe makes generous portions and stores beautifully.
You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it later, or refrigerate leftovers for quick lunches.
It even freezes well—just reheat and enjoy.
Having a pan of baked ziti in the fridge means stress-free meals for days.
3. Customizable for Any Diet
Whether you’re vegetarian, gluten-free, or want a high-protein version, baked ziti is easy to adapt.
Swap the meat with sautéed mushrooms, use gluten-free pasta, or load it with veggies for a lighter twist.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that can cater to a wide range of dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
4. Easy Enough for Beginners
No fancy techniques required—just cook your pasta, layer ingredients, and bake.
This recipe is straightforward, forgiving, and perfect for beginner cooks.
Plus, it’s a fun and satisfying dish to prepare, whether you’re cooking solo or with family.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Cuisine Type: Italian-American
Servings: 6–8
Estimated Cost: $12–$15
Equipment Needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet or saucepan for meat and sauce
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ziti pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional, can use plant-based meat)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
This will help prevent the pasta from sticking and ensure easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the ziti pasta until just shy of al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than the package suggests).
Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Set aside while you prepare the rest.
Step 3: Cook the Meat and Aromatics
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add chopped onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the ground meat (if using) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the meat mixture.
Add basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper.
Simmer for 5–10 minutes to meld the flavors.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
Spread a small amount of the sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
Layer half of the pasta, then dollop half of the ricotta over it.
Add a layer of sauce, followed by a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Repeat with remaining pasta, ricotta, sauce, and cheese.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let the baked ziti rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Calcium: 220mg
- Iron: 3mg
- Vitamin A: 15% DV
- Vitamin C: 8% DV
Tips for Success
1. Undercook the Pasta Slightly
Pasta continues cooking in the oven, so boiling it until just under al dente helps avoid mushiness.
2. Use High-Quality Sauce
A flavorful sauce is key to a delicious ziti.
Choose a good-quality marinara or make your own with canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
3. Don’t Skimp on Cheese Layers
Layering different cheeses—ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan—gives the dish its signature gooey, creamy texture.
4. Let It Rest Before Serving
Allowing baked ziti to cool for 5–10 minutes helps it set.
This makes slicing easier and prevents the layers from sliding apart.
Common Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.
What’s the best pasta alternative?
If you don’t have ziti, penne or rigatoni work just as well—they have similar shapes and hold sauce beautifully.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
How should I reheat baked ziti?
For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot (about 15–20 minutes), or microwave individual servings with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add Vegetables: Include sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Swap the Cheese: Use cottage cheese in place of ricotta for a lighter version.
- Make It Spicy: Add crushed red pepper or use hot Italian sausage for extra heat.
- Try a Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or Alfredo sauce for a decadent twist.
- Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Works just as well and boosts the nutritional profile.
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
- Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or arugula salad adds freshness to this hearty dish.
- Garlic Bread: Nothing beats dipping buttery garlic bread into leftover sauce.
- Roasted Veggies: Serve with roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a balanced plate.
- Wine Pairing: A bold red like Chianti or Zinfandel complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Baked Ziti
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ziti pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage optional, can use plant-based meat
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a little heat
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. This will help prevent the pasta from sticking and ensure easy cleanup later.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta until just shy of al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than the package suggests). Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside while you prepare the rest.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground meat (if using) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the meat mixture. Add basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Spread a small amount of the sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Layer half of the pasta, then dollop half of the ricotta over it. Add a layer of sauce, followed by a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat with remaining pasta, ricotta, sauce, and cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let the baked ziti rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired.
Notes
Pasta continues cooking in the oven, so boiling it until just under al dente helps avoid mushiness. 2. Use High-Quality Sauce
A flavorful sauce is key to a delicious ziti.
Choose a good-quality marinara or make your own with canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. 3. Don’t Skimp on Cheese Layers
Layering different cheeses—ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan—gives the dish its signature gooey, creamy texture. 4. Let It Rest Before Serving
Allowing baked ziti to cool for 5–10 minutes helps it set.
This makes slicing easier and prevents the layers from sliding apart.
There’s something timeless and comforting about a bubbling tray of baked ziti on the table.
It’s a meal that brings people together, fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, and delivers on flavor every time.
Whether you’re preparing it for Sunday dinner, meal prepping for the week, or bringing it to a potluck, this baked ziti is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.
Give it a try and enjoy every cozy, cheesy forkful!
