If you are craving a cozy, hearty, and utterly satisfying pasta dish, this Baked Ziti Recipe is your go-to comfort food. Combining tender, perfectly cooked ziti pasta with rich marinara sauce and layers of creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and sharp parmesan cheese, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and flavor to any table, making it perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers where everyone walks away happy and full.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step toward creating a Baked Ziti Recipe that bursts with vibrant flavors and comforting textures. Each component plays its part—from the al dente pasta that carries the sauce, to the blend of cheeses that create that irresistible gooey top.
- Ziti pasta: The tubular shape holds sauce perfectly and provides a wonderful chewy texture.
- Marinara sauce: Use a quality tomato-based sauce with herbs for a fresh and tangy base.
- Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts wonderfully to give you that coveted stretchy, golden top layer.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated on top for a nutty, salty finish that enhances every bite.
How to Make Baked Ziti Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Ziti Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook it until it’s just al dente—tender but with a slight bite so that it doesn’t turn mushy once baked. Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to soak up all the delicious flavors.
Step 2: Mix Pasta with Sauce and Cheese
In a big bowl, combine your cooked ziti with the vibrant marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and a generous handful of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly so every tube of pasta gets coated in the luscious red sauce and rich cheese mixture, promising flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the top with plenty of shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan. Pop it into a preheated oven at 375°F and bake for about 40 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma while baking is enough to make anyone’s mouth water in anticipation.
How to Serve Baked Ziti Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley right before serving adds a burst of color and freshness, elevating the dish both visually and in flavor. You can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat.
Side Dishes
Serve your baked ziti alongside a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or some garlic bread that’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini also pair beautifully, adding a nutritious balance to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, portion out individual servings in small ramekins or mini cast iron dishes before baking. It’s a charming way to serve each guest their own personal baked ziti. Alternatively, turn it into a layered casserole with extra cheese and fresh basil between layers for added drama and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked ziti keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal if you can resist digging in right away.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil and place in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your baked ziti covered with foil in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the baking time. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick and easy option.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of ziti?
Absolutely! Rigatoni, penne, or even macaroni are great alternatives that hold sauce well and bake nicely in this recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this baked ziti is naturally vegetarian since it uses no meat. For extra protein, you could add sautéed mushrooms or your favorite plant-based sausage.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?
Definitely. You can assemble the baked ziti the night before, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This can save you time on busy days.
What type of marinara sauce works best?
Choose a high-quality marinara with fresh tomatoes and herbs. Homemade or store-bought works fine, just avoid anything too watery to keep the dish from becoming soggy.
How do I get the cheese on top perfectly golden?
Make sure to sprinkle enough mozzarella and parmesan evenly over the top. Baking at 375°F ensures good melting and browning without burning the cheese.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Ziti Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, the combination of tender pasta, savory sauce, and gooey cheese is pure joy. I hope you give this recipe a try and experience the wonderful comfort that it brings to your table.
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Baked Ziti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A comforting and classic Italian-American baked pasta dish featuring ziti pasta combined with marinara sauce and a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound ziti pasta
Sauce
- 4 cups marinara sauce
Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Mix with Sauce and Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with marinara sauce and ricotta cheese. Stir well until the pasta is evenly coated and mixed with the cheese and sauce. Transfer this mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly on top.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish into the oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef for a meatier version.
- Fresh basil or parsley makes a great garnish.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Let the baked ziti rest for about 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.
- Use part-skim cheeses to reduce fat content if desired.
