Baked Ziti: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

When it comes to hearty, crowd-pleasing meals that combine rich flavors, gooey cheese, and comforting pasta, nothing quite compares to Baked Ziti. This classic Italian-American dish is the perfect combination of al dente pasta, savory tomato sauce, and a cheesy topping that melts into golden perfection. Loved by families for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and holiday gatherings, baked ziti is as versatile as it is delicious.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the perfect baked ziti. From the history and variations of the dish to detailed instructions, pro tips, serving suggestions, and nutritional information, this post will walk you step-by-step toward mastering this beloved recipe.

So grab your apron, preheat the oven, and get ready to discover why Baked Ziti deserves a spot on your dinner table.

What is Baked Ziti?

Baked Ziti is a baked pasta casserole traditionally made with ziti pasta, tomato sauce (often with meat), and layers of cheese, typically ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. While it’s similar to lasagna in its layered structure, baked ziti is easier to prepare, requiring fewer steps but still delivering the same cheesy, saucy satisfaction.

The name comes from ziti pasta, a tubular pasta shape that holds sauce beautifully. However, penne or rigatoni can also be used as substitutes if ziti isn’t available.

Ingredients for Classic Baked Ziti

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare the best Baked Ziti recipe:

For the Pasta

• 1 pound ziti pasta (or penne/ridigoni if unavailable)

• 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)

the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage, or a mix of both)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)

• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional, for freshness)

For the Cheese Mixture

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese

• 1 large egg

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Assembly

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large stock pot for pasta

• Skillet or saucepan for sauce

• Mixing bowls

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Aluminum foil

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until just al dente (usually 1–2 minutes less than package directions). Drain and set aside. The pasta will continue to cook in the oven.

2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

5. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.

6. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.

7. Add sugar and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

8. Stir in fresh basil just before removing from heat.

3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth.

4: Assemble the Baked Ziti

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Spread 1 cup of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.

3. Layer half of the cooked pasta over the sauce.

4. Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over pasta.

5. Sprinkle with 1/3 of the mozzarella.

6. Pour half of the remaining sauce over the cheese.

7. Repeat with another layer of pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, and sauce.

8. Finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

5: Bake

Cover with aluminum foil (sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 20 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.

6: Serve

Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti

1. Cook Pasta Al Dente – This prevents mushy pasta after baking.

2. Use a Flavorful Sauce – The sauce is the heart of baked ziti, so season generously.

3. Mix Some Sauce with Pasta – Tossing pasta with a bit of sauce before layering prevents dryness.

4. Don’t Skip Resting Time – Allowing the baked ziti to rest helps layers set and makes serving easier.

5. Make Ahead Friendly – Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Variations of Baked Ziti

• Vegetarian Baked Ziti – Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

• Three-Cheese Ziti – Add provolone, fontina, or gouda for extra cheesiness.

• Spicy Baked Ziti – Use hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes.

• Creamy Alfredo Ziti – Swap marinara with Alfredo sauce for a white-sauce twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair Baked Ziti with:

• Garlic bread or breadsticks

• A crisp Caesar or garden salad

• Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus

• A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Assemble but do not bake, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Bake refrigerated ziti at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 460

• Protein: 28 g

• Fat: 20 g

• Carbohydrates: 45 g

• Fiber: 5 g

• Sodium: 850 mg

Why You’ll Love Baked Ziti

This Baked Ziti recipe checks all the boxes for a comforting family meal:

• Easy to prepare

• Customizable with different proteins or veggies

• Budget-friendly

• Perfect for feeding a crowd

• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience

Conclusion

Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family, bringing a dish to a potluck, or planning a cozy Sunday meal, Baked Ziti is a recipe that never disappoints. It’s hearty, cheesy, satisfying, and endlessly versatile.

Try this recipe once, and it might just become a regular in your kitchen. So go ahead—bring a taste of Italian comfort food to your table tonight with this mouthwatering Baked Ziti.