If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly satisfying pasta dish, this Baked Ziti Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. It’s a beautiful balance of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, tangy marinara, and gooey melted mozzarella, all baked until bubbly and golden on top. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking to impress friends with a warm, rustic meal, this Baked Ziti Recipe brings together simple ingredients in the most delicious way imaginable. Trust me, once you make it, it’s going to be your go-to comfort food for many evenings to come.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Baked Ziti Recipe shines because of the straightforward ingredients that blend together to create layers of flavor and wonderful textures. Each component plays a vital role in delivering that perfect, hearty bake.
- 1 lb ziti pasta: The hollow shape holds sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Adds a vibrant, herby tomato base that keeps the dish fresh and tangy.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: Brings rich creaminess and a velvety texture that balances the acidity of the sauce.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides that irresistible gooey, melty layer that makes baked pasta so comforting.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a nutty, salty finish with a subtle crunch when baked.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that infuses the dish with classic Italian flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate all the other ingredients.
How to Make Baked Ziti Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to make sure it’s ready as soon as your mixture is assembled. Cook the ziti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—just tender but still with a bite. Drain the pasta well so your bake won’t get watery.
Step 2: Mix the Pasta with Sauce and Ricotta
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This step is where the magic begins—each bite will have that creamy, tangy, and herbaceous flavor perfectly melded throughout.
Step 3: Layer the Baked Ziti
Grab a baking dish and spread half of the pasta mixture evenly in the bottom. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella on top—this layer will melt into gooey goodness as it bakes. Add the remaining pasta mixture, then top everything with the rest of the mozzarella and the grated Parmesan. This layered approach guarantees cheesy pockets and a golden-brown crust.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll want to watch for that bubbly sauce just bubbling around the sides and the cheese on top turning golden and slightly crisp. That’s when you know your Baked Ziti is ready to be devoured.
How to Serve Baked Ziti Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top just before serving. It adds a pop of green color and a fresh flavor that complements the rich, cheesy layers perfectly. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also elevate the dish with a silky finish.
Side Dishes
Pair this rich Baked Ziti Recipe with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm focaccia makes for a perfect side to soak up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the Baked Ziti in mini ramekins for individual portions. Alternatively, layered in a clear glass casserole dish, it looks stunning with the cheesy layers visible through the sides. Embellish each serving with a little Parmesan and herb to make it look as beautiful as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your Baked Ziti meal, any leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making reheated portions just as delightful as fresh ones.
Freezing
This Baked Ziti Recipe freezes wonderfully. Store it in a freezer-safe container before baking or freeze any leftovers. It will maintain excellent flavor and texture for up to 2 months, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a fuss-free meal.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through and bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method helps keep the top crispy and melted perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Baked Ziti Recipe?
Absolutely! While ziti is traditional and ideal due to its tubular shape, penne or rigatoni work great as they hold sauce well, too.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe as is is vegetarian since it doesn’t include meat. If you want to add protein, consider adding cooked Italian sausage or ground beef before mixing.
Can I prepare Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it completely and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold from the fridge.
What kind of cheese can I substitute for ricotta?
You can try cottage cheese as a substitute, or blend cream cheese with some milk for a similar creamy texture, although ricotta’s mild flavor is unique.
How do I know when the Baked Ziti is done?
Look for bubbling sauce around the edges and a golden-brown cheese crust. The internal temperature should be hot and reheated thoroughly to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a homemade Baked Ziti Recipe that fills your kitchen with warm aromas and invites everyone to the table. Once you experience how effortlessly simple yet delicious this dish is, I’m confident it will become one of your favorites too. So go ahead, gather those ingredients, and treat yourself to this comforting feast. You deserve it!
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Baked Ziti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Baked Ziti recipe combines al dente pasta with a rich blend of marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Baked to bubbly perfection with Italian seasoning and a golden cheesy crust, it’s an easy, comforting meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain well.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix the cooked ziti with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
- Layer the Ziti: In a baking dish, spread half of the ziti mixture evenly. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Add the remaining ziti mixture and finish by topping with the rest of the mozzarella and all the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese topping is golden brown and melted.
- Serve: Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then serve the baked ziti hot for a comforting and hearty meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni if preferred.
- For extra flavor, add cooked Italian sausage or sautéed vegetables to the mixture before baking.
- To make ahead, assemble the dish and refrigerate; bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
- Using fresh Parmesan cheese yields the best flavor.
- Ensure the pasta is not overcooked to prevent mushy texture after baking.
