Simple & Delicious Baked Ziti Recipe

Whether you're a seasoned chef or a first-time home cook, there's something undeniably comforting about a hearty dish of baked ziti. This Italian-American classic is a celebration of comforting flavors—think gooey cheese, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce baked to perfection. And the best part? It's easy to make, feeds a crowd, and works perfectly as leftovers.

By the end of this post, you'll have a step-by-step recipe for the most delicious baked ziti you've ever tasted, along with tips and tricks to customize it to perfection. Get ready to give your taste buds a reason to dance!

What is Baked Ziti?

Baked ziti is a classic casserole dish from Italian-American cuisine. Made by layering ziti pasta with marinara sauce, a creamy cheese mixture, and occasionally meat, it’s baked in the oven until bubbly and golden brown. Think of it as lasagna’s casual cousin—less fussy but just as delicious.

This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or entertaining guests. With its rich, cheesy layers and hearty sauce, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Easy Prep: Minimal effort with incredible results.
Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit vegetarian, gluten-free, or meat-filled preferences.
Great for Leftovers: It tastes just as good—if not better—the next day.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for potlucks and gatherings.

Ingredients You'll Need

Here’s everything required to whip up this comforting dish:

1 lb ziti pasta (or penne if ziti isn’t available)
4 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional, for meat lovers)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to substitute or add ingredients based on your personal preferences. Vegetarians? Skip the meat. Want more spice? Add crushed red pepper flakes.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Baked Ziti

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the ziti until al dente according to the package instructions, usually 1-2 minutes less than the recommended cooking time. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

If you're adding meat, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage, and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Mix the Cheese

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy and smooth.

Step 5: Layer the Dish

Layering is what takes this dish to another level. Here's how:

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your greased casserole dish.
Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by half the cheese mixture and half the sauce.
Repeat the layering process with the remaining ziti, cheese mixture, and sauce.
Top it all off with the remaining mozzarella cheese for that drool-worthy, cheesy crust.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole dish with foil (to prevent the cheese from over-browning) and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the baked ziti from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve warm. Pair it with a green salad and garlic bread for an unforgettable meal.

Tips for Recipe Success

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooked pasta prevents it from becoming mushy during baking.
Always Taste the Sauce: Store-bought marinara can vary in flavor; adjust seasoning as needed.
Make It Ahead: Assemble the ziti a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when you're ready to serve.
Use a Mix of Cheese: Mozzarella for stretch, Parmesan for sharpness, and ricotta for creaminess.

Customizing Your Baked Ziti

One of the best aspects of baked ziti is its versatility. Here’s how you can adapt it to suit your preferences:

Vegetarian Option: Swap the meat for sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables.
Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
Creamier Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or Alfredo sauce into the marinara.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a delicious gluten-free version.

Why Baked Ziti Never Goes Out of Style

Baked ziti is the epitome of comfort food—a dish that feels like a warm hug. Its rich flavors and creamy textures make it a staple in kitchens worldwide. Whether you're cooking for family, hosting a dinner party, or meal prepping for the week, this dish offers simplicity without compromising on taste.

What’s Next? Share Your Baked Ziti Moments!

Try this recipe and share your baked ziti creations with us! Pair it with your favorite wine, snap a photo, and tag us on social media—we’d love to see your delicious masterpiece.