Simple and Delicious Baked Ziti Recipe You’ll Crave

Introduction

This Simple and Delicious Baked Ziti is the kind of comforting, bubbling pasta dish that makes everyone rush to the dinner table. Featuring layers of tender ziti noodles, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a hearty classic that delivers on both flavor and nostalgia.

Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a casual dinner party, baked ziti is a foolproof favorite. It’s incredibly easy to make, can be assembled ahead, and offers all the coziness of lasagna — without the extra fuss.

Ingredients Overview

This baked ziti recipe uses pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to create a beautifully layered, crave-worthy dish.

Ziti Pasta

• Ziti is a smooth, tube-shaped pasta perfect for holding sauce.
• Penne or rigatoni make excellent substitutes if ziti isn’t available.
• Cook just until al dente to prevent mushiness after baking.

Tomato Sauce

• Use a high-quality marinara or homemade tomato sauce for the best flavor.
• A classic blend of garlic, onion, crushed tomatoes, basil, and oregano creates a bold, aromatic base.
• Optional: Add red pepper flakes or fennel seeds for a spicier or more sausage-like profile.

Ricotta Cheese

• Adds creaminess and helps bind the baked layers.
• Whole milk ricotta is best for richness.
• Can be swapped with cottage cheese or vegan ricotta if needed.

Mozzarella Cheese

• Provides gooey, melty perfection on top and throughout.
• Use shredded mozzarella or fresh mozzarella slices.
• For extra flavor, combine with provolone or fontina.

Parmesan Cheese

• Adds a salty, nutty bite to the top layer.
• Use freshly grated for best results.

Optional Protein

• Ground beef, Italian sausage, or turkey can be browned and mixed into the sauce.
• Lentils or plant-based crumbles work well for a vegetarian protein boost.

Herbs & Seasonings

• Garlic, basil, oregano, and black pepper round out the flavor.
• Fresh parsley or basil makes a vibrant finishing touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven & Cook Pasta

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook 1 pound of ziti until al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions).
• Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare Sauce

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
• Sauté 1 small chopped onion and 3 cloves minced garlic until fragrant and soft (3–4 minutes).
• Add 1 jar (about 24 oz) of marinara sauce or your homemade sauce.
• Simmer for 10 minutes. Add salt, pepper, and herbs to taste.

Optional: Brown 1/2 pound ground beef or sausage in the skillet before adding sauce.

3. Mix Ricotta Filling

In a medium bowl, stir together:

• 1½ cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Pinch of salt and pepper

Set aside.

4. Assemble the Baked Ziti

In a large 9×13-inch baking dish:

1. Spread 1/2 cup sauce on the bottom.
2. Layer half the cooked pasta, followed by:
   • Half the ricotta mixture (dollop and spread gently)
   • Half the remaining sauce
   • Half the shredded mozzarella
3. Repeat with remaining pasta, ricotta, sauce, and mozzarella.
4. Sprinkle the top with extra Parmesan cheese and a few cracks of black pepper.

5. Bake

• Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbly.
• Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Bake directly from the fridge (add 10 minutes).
• Vegetarian Option: Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach in place of meat.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based ricotta, shredded vegan mozzarella, and meatless marinara.
• Spice It Up: Add red chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ziti or penne pasta.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Baked ziti is perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Potlucks or gatherings
• Holiday sides or mains
• Freezer meal prep

Pair it with:

• Garlic bread or focaccia
• Simple arugula or Caesar salad
• Roasted vegetables (like broccoli or carrots)
• A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon

Nutritional & Health Notes

While this dish is rich and comforting, it can be adjusted for different dietary goals:

• Use low-fat ricotta and part-skim mozzarella for a lighter version.
• Add veggies for fiber and nutrients.
• Keep portions balanced by serving with greens or protein on the side.

Estimated Per Serving (1/8th of recipe):

• Calories: ~420–480
• Protein: ~20g
• Carbs: ~40g
• Fat: ~22g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Calcium: ~25% DV

FAQs

Q1: Can I freeze baked ziti?
A1: Yes! Assemble the dish and freeze before baking (cover tightly with foil). Bake from frozen at 375°F for 60–70 minutes, or until heated through.

Q2: How do I reheat leftovers?
A2: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the full dish covered at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.

Q3: Can I use store-bought sauce?
A3: Absolutely. Choose a high-quality marinara or tomato basil sauce. Add fresh garlic or herbs to enhance flavor if needed.

Q4: What pasta shapes can I use besides ziti?
A4: Penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli all work well and hold sauce beautifully.

Q5: Can I make it without ricotta?
A5: Yes! Substitute with cottage cheese, cream cheese, or a béchamel-style white sauce.

Q6: Is baked ziti the same as lasagna?
A6: Similar flavors, but baked ziti is quicker and doesn’t require layering noodles — it’s a more rustic, pasta casserole version.

Q7: Can I double this recipe?
A7: Yes. Use two 9×13 pans or one large deep baking dish. Perfect for feeding a crowd!

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