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This easy baked ziti recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or potlucks. With layers of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s simple to customize—add ground beef, sausage, or extra veggies to make it your own!
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Cuisine: Italian-American
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 to 10
Why You’ll Love Making It
- Cheesy & Comforting – Baked ziti is the ultimate cheesy, saucy, and cozy meal that feels like a warm hug.
- Easy to Make – No complicated techniques, just simple layering and baking!
- Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead and refrigerate or freeze for a quick, stress-free dinner.
- Customizable – Add ground beef, sausage, or extra veggies to make it heartier.
- Perfect for Gatherings – A crowd-pleasing dish that serves a big group with minimal effort.
Ingredients
For the pasta and sauce:
- 1 medium yellow onion – Finely chopped for a sweet, savory depth.
- 3 cloves garlic – Minced for aromatic flavor.
- 1 1/2 ounces Parmesan cheese (about 1/2 cup grated), divided – Adds a salty, nutty richness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the onions and garlic.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a hint of heat.
- 5 cups marinara sauce (about 46 ounces) – Choose a high-quality jarred sauce or homemade marinara.
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided, plus more for seasoning – Enhances the overall flavor.
- Freshly ground black pepper – Adds a touch of heat and depth.
- 1 pound dried ziti or penne pasta – Classic pasta choices that hold up well to baking.
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese – Adds creamy texture and richness.
- 8 ounces shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese (about 2 cups), divided – Melts beautifully for that perfect cheese pull.
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Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add ziti or penne pasta and cook until just al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than the package directions). The pasta should still have a firm bite, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Sauté for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Pour in the marinara sauce and stir in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat. This allows the flavors to meld while you prepare the ricotta mixture.
Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling
In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Stir until smooth and set aside.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta with the Sauce
Transfer the drained pasta back to the now-empty pot. Pour half of the prepared sauce (about 3 cups) over the pasta and toss until coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper, if needed.
Gently fold in the ricotta mixture, leaving some visible pockets of ricotta throughout—this creates creamy bites when baked.
Step 5: Assemble the Baked Ziti
Spread half of the pasta mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish, making an even layer. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella.
Layer the remaining pasta mixture on top and pour over any remaining marinara sauce. Spread evenly, then sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly
Place the baking dish in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling and the cheese is completely melted and golden brown.
If you prefer a crispier cheese topping, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Step 7: Let It Rest & Serve
Remove from the oven and let the baked ziti rest for 15 minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set and makes it easier to scoop out perfect portions.
FAQs
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Yes! Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. If baking from frozen, cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 1 hour, then uncover and bake until golden.
What can I serve with baked ziti?
Baked ziti pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
