Easy Baked Ziti Recipe: A Cheesy Family Favorite

Baked Ziti is the quintessential comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to every meal.

This Italian-American classic combines hearty pasta, savory tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, all baked to perfection.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, preparing for a family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, Baked Ziti is always a crowd-pleaser.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—rich, indulgent flavors without the complicated steps.

With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and vibrant flavors, Baked Ziti is a must-try for any pasta lover.

What is Baked Ziti?

Baked Ziti is a classic pasta dish typically made by combining cooked ziti pasta with marinara or meat sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

The ingredients are layered in a baking dish and then baked in the oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

The result is a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful dish that can be served as a main course for dinner.

The beauty of Baked Ziti lies in its versatility—whether you’re adding meatballs, sausage, or vegetables, there’s no wrong way to make it.

Why You’ll Love Baked Ziti

There are so many reasons why Baked Ziti is a beloved dish. First and foremost, it’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for large gatherings, family dinners, or even potlucks.

Its comforting, cheesy goodness makes it a universal favorite, especially when paired with garlic bread or a fresh salad.

The dish is simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients, but the end result is nothing short of indulgent.

Additionally, it’s incredibly customizable—you can swap ingredients to suit your tastes, such as adding ground beef, sausage, or vegetables.

It’s the kind of dish that’s just as good on day two, making it great for meal prep and leftovers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Baked Ziti, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Ziti Pasta: The classic pasta choice for this dish, but penne or rigatoni can also work well.
• Marinara Sauce: Use a store-bought or homemade marinara sauce. For added richness, you can use a combination of marinara and meat sauce.
• Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese is what makes Baked Ziti so decadent.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella provides that irresistible gooey cheese layer.
• Parmesan Cheese: For added flavor and a golden crust on top.
• Ground Beef (optional): A great addition for a meatier version.
• Garlic and Onions: To enhance the flavor of the sauce.
• Italian Seasoning: To season the sauce with that classic herby flavor.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the garlic and onions.
• Fresh Basil (optional): For garnishing and added flavor.

Equipment Needed

For making Baked Ziti, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Large Pot: To cook the ziti pasta.
• Large Skillet: For sautéing garlic, onions, and ground beef (if using).
• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch casserole dish is ideal for assembling and baking the Ziti.
• Strainer: To drain the pasta.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining the ricotta and mozzarella cheeses.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the sauce and cheese mixture.
• Aluminum Foil: To cover the dish while baking and prevent the cheese from over-browning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Ziti Pasta

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the diced onions and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

If using ground beef or sausage, add it to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked.

Add the marinara sauce to the skillet, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and fully combined.

Assemble the Baked Ziti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom.

Add half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the cheese mixture.

Spread another layer of sauce over the cheese. Repeat with the remaining pasta, cheese mixture, and sauce, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella on top.

Bake the Ziti

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Serve

Allow the Baked Ziti to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Ziti

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, it’s important to cook it al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy during baking.
• Layer the Ingredients: For even distribution of cheese and sauce, layer your pasta and cheese mixture carefully in the baking dish.
• Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella will melt more evenly and create that perfect gooey texture.
• Let It Rest: After baking, allow the Baked Ziti to rest for 5-10 minutes to help it set and make serving easier.
• Customize with Add-Ins: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for added flavor and texture.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Ziti

• Storing: To store leftovers, let the Baked Ziti cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the Ziti in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. If the pasta looks dry, add a splash of marinara sauce before reheating.

Health Considerations

Baked Ziti is a delicious and comforting dish, but like many pasta-based meals, it can be heavy and calorie-dense. Here are a few tips for making it a bit healthier without compromising on flavor:

• Use Whole Wheat Pasta: Opting for whole wheat ziti can provide more fiber and nutrients compared to traditional pasta. This can help with digestion and provide longer-lasting energy.
• Lean Protein Options: If you’re adding ground meat, choose lean options like ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or sausage to reduce the amount of saturated fat.
• Add More Vegetables: Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to increase the nutritional value of the dish. These additions will boost fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Lower-Fat Dairy: You can swap in part-skim ricotta or mozzarella to reduce the fat content, though it may slightly affect the creaminess of the sauce.
• Portion Control: Because Baked Ziti can be rich and filling, serving it with a side salad or steamed vegetables can help balance the meal and reduce the portion size of the pasta.

Conclusion

Baked Ziti is a timeless comfort food that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

With its rich, cheesy sauce and hearty pasta, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special gatherings, or as a meal prep option.

By following simple tips, you can make this dish as healthy as possible while still savoring the flavors that make it a favorite.

Whether you make it with traditional ingredients or opt for healthier substitutions, Baked Ziti will never go out of style.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Baked Ziti ahead of time?
   Yes, Baked Ziti can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat, and it will be as delicious as if you made it fresh.
2. Can I freeze Baked Ziti?
   Absolutely! Baked Ziti freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 50-60 minutes.
3. Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
   Yes, you can substitute gluten-free pasta in place of traditional ziti. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions for the gluten-free pasta, as the texture may differ slightly.
4. Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?
   If you’re not a fan of ricotta, you can use cottage cheese or a combination of cream cheese and Parmesan as a substitute.
5. How can I make Baked Ziti spicier?
   To add some heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce or add a bit of hot sauce. You could also use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.