Baked Ziti is a hearty pasta casserole layered with ziti, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and loads of melted cheese. It’s easy to prep, perfect for feeding a crowd, and even better the next day.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes
Ingredients List
Pasta
- 12 oz ziti pasta (or penne)
- Salt, for boiling water
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cheese Layer
- 1½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
Topping
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta
Boil ziti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Make the sauce
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add ground meat (if using) and cook until browned.
Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5–7 minutes. - Prepare the ricotta mixture
In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley until smooth. - Assemble the casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of sauce in a greased baking dish.
Add half the pasta, half the sauce, and half the ricotta mixture.
Repeat layers. - Add topping & bake
Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes.
Uncover and bake 5–10 minutes until bubbly and golden. - Rest & serve
Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Additional Notes
- Use whole-milk ricotta for creaminess
- Don’t overcook pasta—it finishes cooking in the oven
- Foil prevents cheese from browning too fast
Dietary Info
- Vegetarian-friendly (omit meat)
- Contains gluten and dairy
Brief Introduction
Baked Ziti is a family favorite for good reason—simple ingredients, bold flavor, and a cozy, cheesy finish that always satisfies.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide (Visual Tips)
- Sauce should be thick, not watery
- Layers should be even for clean slices
- Cheese should be golden and bubbly
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Ziti: Penne or rigatoni work well
- Ricotta: Can substitute cottage cheese (blended smooth)
- Marinara: Use homemade or quality jarred sauce
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach
- Use Alfredo sauce for white baked ziti
- Serve with garlic bread and a green salad
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate up to 4 days
- Freeze (unbaked or baked) up to 2 months
- Reheat covered to keep moist
FAQs
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I skip the egg?
Yes, the ricotta layer will still be creamy.
Can I make it spicy?
Add extra red pepper flakes or spicy sausage.
Optional Personal Story
This is the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with comfort. It’s my go-to for gatherings because it’s easy, filling, and everyone loves it.
Call-to-Action
If you make this Baked Ziti, tell me—extra cheese or extra sauce?
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