If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that feels like a big, cozy hug on a plate, this Baked Ziti Recipe is just what you need. Combining perfectly cooked pasta with creamy ricotta, tangy marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella, this classic Italian-American comfort food is easy to throw together and makes for a seriously satisfying dinner. It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that come together beautifully in one cheesy, bubbly bake everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredients simple and fresh is the secret to making this baked ziti truly shine. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tender pasta to the rich cheeses and herb-infused sauce, creating a dish that’s balanced, flavorful, and deeply comforting.
- 1 lb ziti pasta: The perfect tube-shaped pasta to hold onto every bit of sauce and cheese.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Adds a vibrant tomato flavor and a hint of sweetness that ties the dish together.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: Brings creamy softness and a mild tang to the mix.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully, offering a gooey, stretchy texture.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a nutty, salty punch on top for extra depth.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that elevates the whole dish with herbs like oregano and basil.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the full flavor of all the ingredients.
How to Make Baked Ziti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, boil the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly to avoid any watery bake later on.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce and Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This step ensures every bite is bursting with balanced, flavorful sauce and creamy cheese. Give it a gentle but thorough stir to distribute everything evenly.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Grab a baking dish and spread half of the ziti mixture evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella on top, which will start forming that irresistible cheesy crust. Then add the remaining pasta mixture and finish with the rest of the mozzarella and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a golden, flavorful top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and the top is beautifully golden brown. Trust me, the aroma coming from your oven will have you counting down the minutes until dinner!
How to Serve Baked Ziti Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes bring vibrant color and an extra layer of flavor. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top just before serving to add a fresh herbal note that complements the richness perfectly. A drizzle of good olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a nice touch.
Side Dishes
Baked ziti is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread makes it a full Italian feast. A light Caesar or mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. For a cozy touch, warm garlic knots or a crunchy breadstick are ideal for mopping up all that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions of baked ziti in small ramekins for a charming, personal touch that’s perfect for dinner parties. Alternatively, layering with roasted vegetables inside the dish adds a pop of color and nutrition. A sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs on top before baking can offer a delightful crunchy contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked ziti keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for even tastier leftovers. Just be sure to cool it before storing to preserve freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze baked ziti either before or after baking. For best results, assemble the dish in a freeze-safe container, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep that cheesy top crispy and bubbly—usually around 15 to 20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works fine too, but the texture might not be as perfect as oven reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta instead of ziti?
Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni work wonderfully in this baked ziti recipe since they all hold sauce well. Just choose a pasta shape with ridges or tubes to capture that delicious sauce and cheese.
Is it necessary to use ricotta cheese?
Ricotta adds a creamy texture and mild flavor, but if you don’t have any on hand, cottage cheese can be a good substitute. Just blend it slightly to mimic the smooth ricotta texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This baked ziti is already vegetarian as is! If you want to add protein, try mixing in cooked Italian sausage or ground beef before layering, but the marinara and cheeses on their own make it a satisfying meatless option.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Adding red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkling some on top before baking will bring a nice kick to your baked ziti recipe. You can also use spicy Italian sausage if you want to add meat with heat.
Can I prepare baked ziti ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time if baking cold from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Ziti Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like home with every bite. It’s the perfect blend of simple ingredients coming together to create something irresistibly delicious and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or feeding friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite go-to. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how easy and rewarding making baked ziti really is!
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Baked Ziti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A comforting and cheesy baked ziti recipe featuring tender pasta baked in a rich marinara sauce with creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and a golden Parmesan crust. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that serves six.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Cheeses
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Seasoning
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain well.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until evenly combined.
- Layer the Dish: In a baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture evenly. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Add the remaining pasta mixture, then top with the remaining mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the top is beautifully golden brown.
- Serve Hot: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving warm to enjoy the creamy, cheesy flavors at their best.
Notes
- You can use penne pasta as an alternative to ziti if needed.
- For extra flavor, add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to the sauce before mixing.
- Letting the baked ziti rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
- Use fresh Parmesan for the best topping flavor.
- Cover the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking to prevent the cheese from drying out, then uncover for the last 5-10 minutes to brown the top.
