Cheesy Baked Ziti
This Cheesy Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food! Made with tender pasta, a rich and savory marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and lots of gooey melted cheese, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or potluck. It’s like lasagna but with half the effort!
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Sauce:
1 pound (450g) ziti pasta (or penne)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade sauce)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
½ cup water or pasta cooking water (for a smoother sauce)
For the Cheese Mixture:
1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg (for creaminess)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon salt
For Topping:
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the ziti pasta 1-2 minutes less than package directions (since it will continue cooking in the oven).
Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and saute for 2 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
If using, add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in marinara sauce, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
Add ½ cup water and let simmer for 5-10 minutes to enhance the flavor.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, and salt until well combined.
4. Assemble the Baked Ziti:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix cooked pasta with half of the sauce and spread half in the dish.
Dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, then layer with more sauce.
Repeat with the remaining pasta, ricotta, and sauce.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~450 kcal
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 750mg
Sugar: 7g
(Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.)
Notes & Tips
Make it Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add sauteed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
Add More Creaminess: Stir ½ cup heavy cream or mascarpone into the sauce for a richer flavor.
Use Different Cheeses: Try a mix of provolone, gouda, or fontina for extra cheesiness.
Storage & Reheating:Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes, or microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Make Ahead: Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or rotini work well.
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 50-60 minutes.
What can I serve with baked ziti?
Pair it with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.