Best Baked Ziti Ever Recipe

There's something magical about pulling a bubbling, golden-brown baked ziti out of the oven. The cheesy aroma fills your kitchen, promising comfort in every bite. This dish is a classic crowd-pleaser that combines tender pasta, rich marinara, and gooey melted cheese for the ultimate Italian-inspired casserole.

this Recipe

The first time I made baked ziti, I was hosting a last-minute dinner party. I needed something simple yet impressive—and this recipe delivered. Not only did my guests rave about it, but it also became a staple in my meal rotation for its versatility and ease.

Let’s dive into why this baked ziti deserves a permanent spot on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti

Get ready to discover your new go-to recipe for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. This baked ziti checks all the boxes for flavor, convenience, and family appeal.

First off, it’s ridiculously easy to make. With just a handful of steps—cooking the pasta, layering the ingredients, and popping it in the oven—you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve in under an hour.

It’s budget-friendly, too. By using pantry staples like pasta, marinara sauce, and mozzarella, you can create a dish that feeds a crowd without breaking the bank.

The flavors are customizable to suit your preferences. Love a spicy kick? Add some crushed red pepper flakes. Prefer it vegetarian? Toss in roasted veggies instead of meat.

Finally, this dish is perfect for leftovers. Whether you’re packing lunch or reheating for a second dinner, it tastes just as delicious the next day.

Now that you’re convinced, let’s talk ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of baked ziti lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is chosen to bring maximum flavor and texture to the dish.

• Ziti pasta: The star of the show! Ziti’s tube-like shape is perfect for holding the sauce. If you can’t find ziti, penne or rigatoni works well, too. Cook it al dente so it doesn’t overcook in the oven.
• Marinara sauce: A good-quality jarred marinara saves time, but if you have homemade sauce on hand, even better. Choose a brand with a robust, well-rounded flavor for the best results.
• Ground beef or sausage: Adding protein makes this dish heartier. For a more traditional flavor, try Italian sausage, but ground turkey or beef works wonderfully, too.
• Ricotta cheese: This creamy layer is essential for authentic baked ziti. Mix it with egg and seasonings to create a smooth, flavorful filling.
• Mozzarella cheese: Use shredded mozzarella for easy melting and a gooey top layer. If you prefer, you can use fresh mozzarella slices for a slightly more upscale version.
• Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, salty finish that ties everything together beautifully.

Special Equipment: You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for cooking the meat, and a 9x13-inch baking dish for assembling the ziti.

How to Make the Best Baked Ziti Ever

Creating this baked ziti masterpiece is as simple as layering flavors. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti pasta until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Stir in a jar of marinara sauce, letting the flavors meld for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, an egg, and a generous pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, start layering:

• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
• Add half of the cooked pasta.
• Spoon half of the meat sauce over the pasta.
• Dollop half of the ricotta mixture on top and spread evenly.
• Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
• Repeat the layers, finishing with mozzarella and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the dish with foil (to prevent drying) and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.

Storage Options

One of the best things about baked ziti is how well it stores.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or in the microwave for a quicker option.
• Freezer: Assemble the ziti in a freezer-safe dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions.

For small portions, freeze individual servings for easy reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This baked ziti is a blank canvas for your creativity. Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Vegetarian: Skip the meat and load up on sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted zucchini.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly.
• Spicy: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
• Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, asiago, or a sprinkle of pecorino romano.
• Make It a One-Pot Meal: Use a Dutch oven to cook the pasta, prepare the sauce, and bake the ziti in the same dish.

No matter how you customize it, this baked ziti will be a hit at your table

Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate baked ziti recipe that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering, a casual weeknight dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this dish never disappoints. Pair it with a crisp side salad and some garlic bread, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will love.

What’s your favorite baked ziti twist? Share your ideas below—I can’t wait to hear them!

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