Name: Cheesy Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

Cheesy Baked Ziti is a classic comfort food dish featuring tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella. It’s an oven-baked pasta casserole that delivers the perfect combination of savory flavors and cheesy goodness in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a hearty family dinner, this recipe is a reliable favorite that never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Baked Ziti recipe is perfect for those who enjoy warm, satisfying meals with minimal fuss. It’s easy to prepare, highly customizable, and ideal for meal prepping. The layers of gooey cheese and rich tomato sauce make it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option that works well for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ziti pasta
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely chopped
Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Ricotta cheese
Egg (for mixing with the ricotta)
Parmesan cheese, grated
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Salt and black pepper
Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant.
Pour in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, a beaten egg, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
In a large baking dish, start by layering some of the sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked pasta, followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture, a layer of mozzarella, and more sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with mozzarella on top.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6–8 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Meaty Option: Add ground beef, sausage, or turkey to the marinara sauce for a heartier version.
Vegetarian Twist: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added vegetables.
Spicy Ziti: Add red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage for a kick.
Cheese Variety: Swap ricotta for cottage cheese, or use provolone or fontina in place of mozzarella.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and check labels on other ingredients.

storage/reheating

Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes. If the dish seems dry, add a small splash of marinara sauce or water before reheating.

FAQs

How do I prevent baked ziti from drying out?

Cover the dish with foil while baking and avoid overcooking. Using enough sauce also helps retain moisture.

Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, adding an extra 10 minutes to the cook time.

Is it necessary to boil the pasta before baking?

Yes, boiling the pasta before baking ensures it cooks evenly. Do not use dry pasta directly in this recipe.

What’s the best type of cheese for baked ziti?

Mozzarella and ricotta are traditional, but Parmesan adds sharpness. You can also try provolone or fontina for different flavor profiles.

Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes, baked ziti freezes well. Cool it completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use penne or another pasta shape?

Yes, penne or rigatoni are great substitutes if you don’t have ziti on hand.

How do I make baked ziti creamier?

Add a bit of heavy cream or extra ricotta cheese to the sauce mixture for a creamier texture.

What kind of marinara sauce should I use?

Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce. A chunky or robust sauce works best for texture and flavor.

Can I bake it without foil?

Yes, but the top may brown too quickly. For best results, cover with foil during the first part of baking, then remove it to brown the cheese.

How do I know when baked ziti is done?

The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the edges slightly browned. A knife inserted into the center should come out hot.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Ziti is a timeless, family-friendly dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. With layers of rich marinara, creamy ricotta, and perfectly melted mozzarella, it brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether served fresh from the oven or enjoyed as leftovers, this classic baked pasta