Baked Ziti: Discover This Delicious and Easy Recipe!

Introduction

Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food—rich marinara sauce, melty cheese, and tender pasta layered into one satisfying dish. This classic Italian-American casserole is easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless and satisfying – With simple steps and pantry staples, it’s a no-fuss meal that tastes like it took hours to make.
• Cheesy Comfort – Layers of gooey mozzarella and creamy ricotta make every bite a melty delight.
• Family Favorite – Crowd-pleasing and kid-approved—perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
• Customizable – Add veggies, switch up the meat, or go vegetarian to suit your preferences.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble in advance and bake when ready—ideal for busy schedules.

Ingredients for Baked Ziti

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor.

• Ziti pasta: The star of the dish, ziti holds onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Olive oil: A splash of this olive oil, which adds richness and helps sauté the veggies.
• Onion: Diced onions bring sweetness and depth to the sauce, making it more aromatic.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Ground beef or Italian sausage: Choose your protein for a hearty base; both options add savory goodness.
• Marinara sauce: This is the heart of the dish, providing a rich, tangy flavor that ties everything together.
• Dried oregano and basil: These herbs infuse the dish with classic Italian flavors, making it feel authentic.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional, but they add a delightful kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.
• Ricotta cheese: Creamy and rich, ricotta adds a luscious texture and balances the dish.
• Egg: This helps bind the ricotta mixture so it stays creamy when baked.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty topping that makes baked ziti irresistible.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle on top adds a salty, nutty finish that complements the mozzarella.
• Fresh basil: Optional for garnish, it adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.

Exact quantities are in the printable recipe below.

How to Make Baked Ziti

Creating baked ziti is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time!

Step 1: Preheat and Cook Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside. This step is crucial; overcooked pasta can turn mushy in the oven.

Salt the boiling water generously before adding pasta for best flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it softens. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant for an additional minute.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Next, add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off. This step adds a hearty base to your baked ziti, making it satisfying and filling.

Step 4: Combine Sauce and Seasonings

Now, stir in the marinara sauce along with the dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), salt, and black pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich sauce that will coat the pasta perfectly.

Step 5: Prepare Ricotta Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth. This decadent mixture adds a delightful texture to your baked ziti, making every bite a little more indulgent.

Step 6: Mix Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the meat sauce mixture. Stir until the pasta is well coated. This step ensures even flavor distribution. The pasta absorbs all those rich flavors, ensuring every forkful is packed with taste.

Step 7: Layer the Ingredients

Spread half of the ziti mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Layer the remaining ziti mixture on top, followed by the rest of the ricotta mixture and the remaining mozzarella cheese. Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. These layers create a beautiful, cheesy masterpiece!

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing so the layers hold together better. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy your savory creation!

Tips for Success

• Mix up the cheese blend with provolone, fontina, or gouda for a twist.
• Add a splash of red wine to your sauce for depth and richness.
• Assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate—bake when ready!

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders for browning meat and sautéing veggies.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Any oven-safe dish will do if you don’t have this size.
• Mixing bowls: Use any size; just make sure they’re sturdy for mixing.
• Large spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring and breaking up meat.
• Aluminum foil: Essential for covering the dish while baking.

Variations

• Vegetarian Delight: Swap the meat for sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for an extra layer of heat.
• Cheesy Overload: Mix in different cheeses like provolone, gouda, or even a sprinkle of feta for a unique twist.
• Whole Wheat Ziti: Use whole wheat ziti for a healthier, fiber-rich alternative that still tastes great.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute ziti with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for a classic pairing.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of baked ziti.
• Wine: Pair with a robust red wine like Chianti to enhance the flavors.
• Presentation: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.

FAQs about Baked Ziti

Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble it a day ahead and bake when ready.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of ricotta, you can use cottage cheese or even cream cheese for a different texture. Both options will still provide that cheesy goodness.

Can I freeze baked ziti?
Definitely. Cool completely, then wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat leftover baked ziti?
To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through. This helps keep the cheese from drying out.

Is baked ziti a good option for meal prep?
Definitely! Baked ziti is perfect for meal prep. You can portion it out into individual servings for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Baked Ziti is a comforting, crowd-pleasing classic that’s easy to make and easy to love. Whether for family dinners or potlucks, it brings warmth and flavor to every bite.