When it comes to crowd-pleasers that bring both flavor and ease, baked ziti is a standout. This classic dish offers the rich, cheesy goodness of lasagna but without all the extra work. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, baked ziti is a beloved comfort food that never fails to impress. It’s affordable, simple to prepare, and always guarantees a satisfying meal for all.
With its gooey layers of cheese, perfectly sauced pasta, and the opportunity for customization, this baked ziti recipe is a true gem. You don’t need to be an expert chef to create a dish this delicious—this recipe is easy to follow and rewarding, no matter your cooking experience. Whether serving a large group or planning for leftovers, baked ziti always delivers.
Consider baked ziti your go-to meal for busy days or special occasions. It’s endlessly adaptable, allowing you to add proteins like sausage or veggies such as spinach, and it pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or garlic bread. Let’s dive into the steps that will make this cheesy, comforting dish a new family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Dry Pasta Woes: The ample marinara sauce keeps the pasta moist and full of flavor.
- Triple Cheese Bliss: Mozzarella for meltiness, Parmesan for depth, and ricotta for creamy pockets.
- Customizable: Feel free to add proteins like sausage or vegetables like spinach for extra heartiness.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or freezing for a future meal.
- Crowd-Pleasing: A satisfying dish that feeds a group without breaking the bank.
Ingredients Overview
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ ounces Parmesan cheese (about ½ cup), finely grated, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 5 cups marinara sauce (about 46 ounces)
- 1¼ teaspoons kosher salt, divided, plus more for seasoning
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 pound dried ziti or penne pasta
For the Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (about 2 cups), divided
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and position a rack in the center. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 12 minutes, until softened. Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using), marinara sauce, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Season with black pepper, then simmer the sauce for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 1 pound of ziti or penne pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
Step 3: Add half of the marinara sauce (about 3 cups) to the pasta and toss to coat. In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, ¼ cup Parmesan, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Gently fold the ricotta mixture into the pasta, leaving pockets of cheese for a creamy texture.
Step 4: Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pasta. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, spreading it out into an even layer. Pour any remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup Parmesan over the pasta.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling and the cheese is golden brown. Let the baked ziti cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Baked Ziti
- Don’t Skimp on Sauce: Use plenty of marinara to keep the dish moist and flavorful.
- Layer Strategically: Ensure the pasta is well-sauced before layering to promote even cooking.
- Folding vs. Layering Ricotta: Folding the ricotta into the pasta avoids dry, grainy spots.
- Golden-Brown Cheese: For a crispy, golden top, bake uncovered.
- Make It Your Own: Add cooked sausage, ground beef, or roasted vegetables to customize the dish.
Variations to Try
- Add Sausage: Stir in some cooked sausage for a meaty version of baked ziti.
- Add Vegetables: Try spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Use Ricotta Alternatives: Swap ricotta with cottage cheese or a vegan alternative.
- Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Add extra mozzarella or Parmesan for a cheesy, melty topping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or any tubular pasta with ridges works well for holding the sauce.
Q: How do I make this vegetarian?
A: You can omit the meat and add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or even use plant-based meat alternatives.
Q: Can I freeze baked ziti?
A: Yes! Let the dish cool completely, wrap it tightly in foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months.
How to Store and Reheat
To store and reheat your baked ziti, follow these steps for the best results:
Refrigerating:
Allow the baked ziti to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing:
Cool the baked ziti and wrap it tightly with foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. You can freeze it whole or in individual portions.
Reheating from the Refrigerator:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes or until heated through.
Reheating from the Freezer:
For frozen ziti, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), and bake covered for 50–60 minutes, uncovering it for the last 10 minutes to brown the cheese.
Pro Tips:
- Add a splash of marinara sauce before reheating to maintain moisture.
- For an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle additional mozzarella or Parmesan before reheating.
Conclusion
This Easy Baked Ziti is a perfect meal that combines hearty pasta, savory marinara, and gooey cheese into one satisfying dish. Ideal for family dinners or feeding a crowd, it’s a versatile and budget-friendly favorite. With endless customization options, you can make it your own with added meats, veggies, or extra cheese.
Enjoy this comforting recipe on busy weeknights or for a special occasion, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones. We hope this cheesy delight becomes a staple in your kitchen. Follow us on Pinterest for more delicious recipes to try!
