This Easy Baked Ziti is a hearty, comforting dish that’s packed with layers of pasta, marinara sauce, and melty cheese. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or a weeknight meal that everyone will love. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates the perfect creamy and cheesy texture. Plus, the rich marinara sauce brings an added depth of flavor to each bite. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it with your family, this dish is sure to satisfy every appetite.
The simplicity of baked ziti makes it an easy go-to meal for those busy nights when you need something quick and filling. This recipe combines classic ingredients to create a dish that’s both familiar and satisfying. It’s easy to customize too! You can add your favorite protein, whether it’s ground beef, sausage, or even a plant-based alternative. Baked ziti is all about comfort, and it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Full Recipe:
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1 pound ziti pasta
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
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1/2 cup water
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2 teaspoons dried basil
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2 teaspoons dried oregano
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
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Stir in the marinara sauce, water, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let the sauce cook for 5-7 minutes.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
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Pour the sauce mixture over the pasta and cheese, stirring to combine everything evenly.
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Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
What Makes This Recipe So Special?
The beauty of this baked ziti lies in its simplicity. The recipe calls for just six ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your kitchen. Ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh basil come together to create a mouthwatering meal that’s both creamy and cheesy.
The use of ricotta cheese in this baked ziti recipe is a game-changer. It provides a smooth, creamy texture that helps bind everything together, making every bite rich and satisfying. For the best results, it’s recommended to use freshly shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Pre-shredded cheeses, while convenient, often don’t melt as well and can affect the creaminess of the dish.
How to Make the Best Baked Ziti
Making baked ziti is straightforward, but there are a few key tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time. First, make sure to cook the pasta al dente. Overcooking it can lead to mushy ziti that doesn’t hold up well in the baking process.
Another tip is to let the ricotta cheese soften before mixing it with the marinara sauce. If you add it straight from the fridge, it can be difficult to incorporate fully, leaving you with uneven textures.
To assemble the baked ziti, layer the pasta, sauce, and cheeses in a greased casserole dish. This layering process helps to create pockets of cheese throughout the dish, ensuring each bite is just as cheesy as the last. After baking, make sure to let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about baked ziti is that it can be made ahead of time, which makes it perfect for meal prepping. After assembling the dish, simply cover it tightly and refrigerate it for up to two days. When you’re ready to bake, just allow it to come to room temperature before popping it in the oven.
For long-term storage, baked ziti can be frozen for up to two months. Freezing is a great option if you want to make a large batch and have it ready for future meals. Simply cover the dish tightly with foil before freezing. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and bake as usual.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have any leftover baked ziti, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It’s an excellent option for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 30-45 minutes, or until heated through.
For freezing, make sure the dish is completely cool before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When reheating, ensure the dish is fully thawed before putting it back in the oven to get the best results.
Serving Suggestions
This easy baked ziti recipe is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Garlic bread or homemade breadsticks are classic accompaniments that soak up the extra sauce and cheese, adding a bit of crunch and flavor. For a well-rounded meal, serve the ziti alongside a fresh salad. A Chicken Caesar Salad is an excellent choice, as it provides a nice contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta. If you want to add some vegetables, try zucchini au gratin for a creamy, cheesy side dish that complements the baked ziti perfectly.
Conclusion
Baked ziti is one of those comforting, satisfying dishes that can quickly become a family favorite. This particular recipe is easy to make, using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, making it perfect for busy nights. The richness of the ricotta cheese, combined with the mozzarella and Parmesan, creates a cheesy, gooey texture that everyone will love.
Whether you’re making this dish for a weeknight meal, a potluck, or to enjoy as leftovers, this baked ziti recipe will always deliver. With its ease of preparation, rich flavors, and cheesy goodness, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your meal planning rotation. So why not give it a try and enjoy a warm, comforting meal that’s sure to impress?