Baked Ziti is a pasta lover’s dream, filled with tender noodles, savory marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese. It’s everything you want in a classic comfort food—hearty, cheesy, and packed with Italian flavor. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep, this recipe will bring everyone to the table. Ready to bake up some cheesy goodness? Let’s get started!
Ingredients List: Everything You Need for Perfect Baked Ziti
For a baked ziti that’s cheesy, hearty, and full of flavor, here’s the essential list of ingredients.
For the Pasta and Sauce: Savory, Cheesy, and Hearty
- 1 lb ziti pasta – Classic pasta shape for baked ziti.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – To prevent sticking.
- 1 lb Italian sausage or ground beef – Adds hearty flavor; optional for a vegetarian version.
- 1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for a savory base.
- 3 cups marinara sauce – Use your favorite or homemade.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – For classic Italian flavors.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhances all the flavors.
For the Cheese Layers: Creamy and Melty
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – For a creamy, rich layer.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind the ricotta mixture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Adds melty, gooey goodness.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – For a salty, nutty flavor.
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped – Optional, for garnish.
Equipment Needed: Tools for Perfectly Baked Ziti
You’ll need a few basic tools to make this comforting casserole.
- Large pot – For cooking the pasta.
- Large skillet – For cooking the sauce.
- Mixing bowls – For combining the cheese mixture.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Perfect for layering and baking.
- Foil – To cover while baking for a perfect, gooey texture.
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Baked Ziti
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make baked ziti that’s rich, cheesy, and perfectly baked.
- Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until just al dente (slightly undercooked), then drain and toss with 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Make the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage (or ground beef) over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add the Marinara and Seasonings: Pour in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Layer the Ziti: Spread 1 cup of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the cooked ziti over the sauce. Top with half of the ricotta mixture, half of the mozzarella, and half of the remaining sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, and sauce.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the final layer.
- Bake the Ziti: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy!
Cooking Time and Serving Size: Hearty, Cheesy, and Perfect for Sharing
Here’s the time breakdown and serving size for this delicious baked ziti:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: About 55 minutes
- Serving Size: Serves 6-8
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~450 | Protein: 18g | Carbs: 40g | Fat: 20g
Tips and Variations: Make This Baked Ziti Your Own
Baked ziti is easy to customize! Here are some tips and variations to make it exactly how you like.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat or substitute with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for a veggie-loaded version.
- Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
- Extra Creamy: Mix in a little heavy cream or more ricotta for an ultra-creamy texture.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the baked ziti and store it in the fridge overnight. Bake fresh the next day for an easy meal.
Presentation Tips: Serve Baked Ziti Like a Pro
Serve baked ziti straight from the casserole dish for a rustic look, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with garlic bread and a simple green salad to make it a complete meal.
Baked Ziti FAQs: Your Questions Answered
New to making baked ziti? Here are answers to common questions to help you get perfect results every time.
- Can I freeze baked ziti? Yes! Assemble the ziti, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
- How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered, for 20-25 minutes until warm. You can also microwave individual portions.
- Can I use other pasta shapes? Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta shape works well in this recipe.
Enjoy the Hearty, Cheesy Goodness of Homemade Baked Ziti
This Baked Ziti recipe is everything you love about a comforting pasta bake—rich, cheesy, and full of Italian flavor. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish is sure to be a hit every time. So grab your ingredients, layer up this delicious casserole, and enjoy every gooey, cheesy bite of homemade baked ziti. Buon appetito!
