Cheesy Baked Ziti

Cheesy Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food—a bubbling casserole of tender pasta, savory tomato sauce, and layers of gooey, melted cheese. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this classic Italian-American dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where hearty food is appreciated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-pleaser: Always a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead friendly: Assemble it early and bake when ready.
• Layers of flavor: A combination of cheeses, pasta, and sauce creates a satisfying, indulgent dish.
• Customizable: Add meat, veggies, or herbs to suit your taste.
• Freezer-friendly: Perfect for meal prep or emergency dinners.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ziti pasta
• ricotta cheese
• shredded mozzarella cheese
• grated Parmesan cheese
• eggs
• marinara or tomato sauce
• garlic, minced
• onion, chopped
• ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
• olive oil
• salt and black pepper
• dried oregano or basil

directions

1. Preheat oven: Set to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta: Boil ziti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent. Add ground meat if using; cook until browned. Stir in marinara and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Mix cheese layer: In a bowl, combine ricotta, eggs, half the mozzarella, and half the Parmesan. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
5. Assemble: In a greased baking dish, layer half the pasta, half the sauce, and half the cheese mixture. Repeat layers.
6. Top and bake: Finish with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for 10–15 more minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. Rest and serve: Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 40 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit meat and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
• Spicy: Use hot Italian sausage or add chili flakes.
• Extra cheesy: Stir additional mozzarella between pasta layers.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure sauce is GF-friendly.
• White sauce version: Swap marinara for Alfredo or béchamel.

storage/reheating

• Refrigeration: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze assembled (unbaked) or fully baked ziti for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave portions.

FAQs

Can I use penne or rigatoni instead?

Yes, any short tubular pasta works well.

Is it okay to use jarred sauce?

Yes, just choose a high-quality marinara for best results.

Can I skip the ricotta?

You can substitute with cottage cheese or mascarpone for a different texture.

Do I need to cook pasta all the way?

Cook until al dente, since it will finish cooking in the oven.

Should I cover it while baking?

Yes—cover first to retain moisture, then uncover to brown the top.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days when stored in a sealed container.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely—zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach are great additions.

What cheese is best on top?

Mozzarella for melt, Parmesan for flavor. A mix is ideal.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Use a larger baking dish and increase baking time slightly.

Do leftovers reheat well?

Yes—especially when reheated in the oven for crispy edges.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Ziti is everything you want in a comforting pasta bake: savory, cheesy, satisfying, and easy to prepare. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make it your own with variations, it’s a guaranteed family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.

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