This baked ziti is rich, cheesy and deeply comforting; the kind of easy pasta bake that works for busy weeknights, family dinners or feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
Tender ziti pasta is coated in marinara sauce and creamy ricotta, then baked under a bubbling layer of mozzarella and parmesan until golden and irresistible.
It has all the cozy appeal of lasagna without the layering or extra fuss, making it one of those dependable recipes you'll come back to again and again. Serve it with garlic bread and a crisp salad for the ultimate comfort meal.
For more delicious and cozy recipes, try my Slow Cooker Barbecue Pulled Pork, this recipe for Slow Cooker French Onion and Potatoes and my Mushroom White Wine Marry Me Chicken.
Ingredients
- Ziti pasta: Holds the sauce beautifully and stays tender while baking.
- Marinara sauce: Brings rich tomato flavor and keeps the pasta saucy and comforting.
- Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and creates that classic baked pasta texture.
- Mozzarella: Melts into a golden, stretchy cheese topping.
- Parmesan: Adds salty, nutty depth and helps create a flavorful crust on top.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti in generously salted water until just al dente, then drain well. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with marinara sauce.
- Step 2: Add the ricotta cheese until evenly coated.
- Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Step 4: Sprinkle parmesan evenly over the top.
- Step 5: Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Step 6: Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling around the edges. Rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to help the pasta set slightly.
Substitutions
- Ziti pasta: Penne or rigatoni work well if ziti isn't available.
- Ricotta cheese: Cottage cheese makes a great higher-protein alternative.
- Mozzarella: Use provolone or a grated Italian cheese blend for extra flavor.
- Marinara sauce: Homemade tomato sauce or arrabbiata sauce both work beautifully.
Variations
- Add browned ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken for a heartier version.
- Stir spinach or sauteed mushrooms into the pasta mixture for extra vegetables.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist on baked ziti.
- Top with fresh basil after baking for freshness and color.
Equipment
You'll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a mixing bowl for combining the ingredients, and a medium baking dish for baking everything together until bubbly and golden.
Storage
Baked ziti stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 2 months.
Reheat in a 325°F (160°C) oven until warmed through or microwave individual servings as needed.
Top tip
Cook the pasta just until al dente before baking. The pasta continues cooking in the oven, so slightly undercooking it at the boiling stage prevents the final dish from becoming too soft.
FAQ
Yes. Assemble the entire dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Baked Ziti
Ingredients
- 14 oz ziti pasta
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1½ cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup grated parmesan
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti in salted water until just al dente. Drain.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with marinara sauce and ricotta until evenly combined.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan evenly over the top.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Nutrition Disclaimer
All nutritional information provided is an estimate. For specific dietary needs or concerns, we recommend consulting a nutrition calculator or a qualified expert.
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