If you’re a fan of cozy, comforting Italian dishes that bring everyone to the table with a smile, then this Baked Ziti Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. Imagine tender pasta enveloped in a rich, savory meat sauce, layered with creamy ricotta, fresh basil, and gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a deliciously satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or feeding a crowd, combining simplicity and flavor in every bite. I’m excited to share this Baked Ziti Recipe with you because it delivers warmth and classic comfort with an easy preparation that anyone can master.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Baked Ziti Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that work beautifully together to create a dish bursting with flavor and the perfect balance of textures. Each component plays a crucial role—whether it’s the bite of the pasta, the richness of the meat sauce, or the creamy, cheesy layers that bring it all together.
- 1 lb ziti pasta (or penne, or gluten-free pasta): The ideal pasta to hold onto the sauce and cheese with every forkful.
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean): Adds that hearty, meaty base essential to the savory depth of the dish.
- 1 onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and aroma that soften during cooking, enhancing the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic punch that complements the savory flavors perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all ingredients to life.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to balance the richness.
- 5 cups marinara sauce: The heart of the recipe, providing a vibrant, tangy tomato flavor.
- 15 ounces fresh ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it softens the meat sauce with luscious texture.
- 10 fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish: Fresh herbs brighten the whole dish with lovely fragrant notes.
- 12 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts beautifully to create that irresistible gooey topping and layers.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided: Adds sharp, nutty flavor in every cheesy bite.
How to Make Baked Ziti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling salted water and cooking the ziti pasta according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. This texture is key because it ensures the pasta will hold up beautifully throughout the baking process without turning mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
In a large pan or Dutch oven set over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef together with the chopped onion until the meat is no longer pink and the onion is translucent. Then add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper, sautéing for just a minute longer until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce, stirring well and bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes so the flavors blend and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom—this helps prevent sticking and adds flavor from the start. In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining meat sauce with the cooked pasta, chopped fresh basil, and fresh ricotta cheese. Gently stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated in sauce and the ricotta adds a creamy richness to the mix.
Step 4: Layer and Bake
Now it’s time to assemble! Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top, then repeat with the remaining pasta mixture and cheeses, creating delicious cheesy layers. Place the dish in a preheated 350°F oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until everything is bubbling hot and the cheese has melted. For an extra golden and slightly crispy top, broil the dish for 1 to 2 minutes—but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Allow your baked ziti to cool for about 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the cheese set slightly. Garnish with additional fresh basil for a pop of green and herbaceous aroma that lifts the entire dish. Then dig in—each bite brings a warm, cheesy, hearty delight that feels like a big, comforting hug.
How to Serve Baked Ziti Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves give your dish that beautiful color contrast and herbaceous aroma that invigorates the rich, cheesy flavors. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for added sharpness. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can brighten things up nicely.
Side Dishes
Since this Baked Ziti Recipe is quite filling, lighter sides work best. Crisp green salads with vinaigrette cut through the richness, while roasted vegetables or garlic bread add complementary textures and flavors. If you want something refreshing, a simple cucumber and tomato salad with lemon dressing is a perfect match.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting friends or family, try serving this baked ziti in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets. It’s charming, practical, and makes each portion feel extra special. Another fun presentation is layering the baked ziti in clear glass dishes to showcase the beautiful cheese and pasta layers before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish reheats wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying later. Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, so you’ll have delicious meals waiting for you.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Baked Ziti Recipe down the line, freezing is a great option. Assemble the dish as usual but don’t bake it—wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, allowing a little extra time if still slightly frozen.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the leftovers with foil to prevent drying out and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can finish with a few minutes of broiling for that bubbly cheese finish, just like when freshly baked. Stovetop reheating in a pan with a splash of water or sauce works too if you’re in a hurry.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Baked Ziti Recipe?
Absolutely! While ziti is traditional, penne or rigatoni work just as well because they also hold sauce beautifully. Gluten-free pasta options are also a great substitute if you need to avoid gluten.
Is ricotta cheese necessary?
Ricotta adds creaminess and soft texture that balances the meat and tomato sauce. You could substitute with cottage cheese or mascarpone in a pinch, but ricotta remains the classic choice for authentic flavor and consistency.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply skip the ground beef and use extra vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant sautéed with the onions and garlic. Alternatively, use plant-based ground meat substitutes for a vegetarian option that still delivers on richness.
How long can I store the leftovers in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, baked ziti leftovers will stay good for 3 to 4 days. Always check for freshness before eating and reheat thoroughly until hot all the way through.
Can I prepare the Baked Ziti Recipe in advance and bake later?
Yes! You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a fantastic option for easy entertaining or busy weeknights.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Ziti Recipe is truly the kind of dish that turns an ordinary dinner into a memorable event full of comfort and joy. Its ease, flavor, and hearty ingredients make it a reliable classic that will keep friends and family coming back for more. I hope you give it a try soon and share the love and warmth that this recipe so wonderfully brings to your table.
Print
Baked Ziti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This classic Baked Ziti recipe features al dente pasta combined with a rich meat and marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Baked to perfection with a golden cheesy crust, it’s a comforting, hearty Italian-American casserole perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb ziti pasta (or penne, or gluten-free pasta)
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 5 cups marinara sauce
Cheese and Herbs
- 15 ounces fresh ricotta cheese
- 10 fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 12 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente texture. Drain the pasta well and set it aside to cool slightly.
- Make Meat Sauce: In a large pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion until the meat is cooked through and onions are translucent. Add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper, and sauté for an additional minute to release the flavors. Stir in the marinara sauce, bring it to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of the prepared meat sauce at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a separate large bowl, mix together the remaining meat sauce, chopped basil leaves, fresh ricotta cheese, and the cooked pasta. Stir gently to ensure all the pasta is well coated with the mixture.
- Layer and Bake: Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly over the sauce in the baking dish. Top this layer with half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Repeat with the remaining pasta mixture and cheese to form a second layer.
- Bake and Broil: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled ziti casserole for 25 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and heated through. For a beautifully browned cheesy top, broil the dish for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves before serving to add a touch of freshness and color.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or sausage for variation.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
- Using gluten-free pasta keeps this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Broiling is optional but recommended for a crispy cheese topping.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven.
