There’s nothing quite as comforting as a cheesy, hearty dish that brings everyone to the table, and Easy Baked Ziti does just that. This dish is a family favorite, offering all the delicious, gooey goodness of lasagna without the layers of effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, baked ziti is one of those meals that will always leave everyone satisfied and asking for more.
This recipe features a delightful combination of perfectly cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and a trio of cheeses that melt together to create a mouthwatering, savory masterpiece. It’s a breeze to make, yet it tastes like something that’s been carefully prepared for hours. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this dish will become your go-to for effortless, flavorful meals.
What makes this recipe even better is its adaptability. You can customize it to suit your tastes by adding proteins like sausage or ground beef, or toss in some fresh vegetables for a veggie-packed version. Ready to dive into this simple yet irresistible dish? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Dry Pasta Woes: The generous amount of marinara sauce keeps the pasta moist and flavorful.
- Triple Cheese Bliss: Mozzarella for meltiness, Parmesan for depth, and ricotta for creamy pockets.
- Customizable: Add proteins like sausage or veggies like spinach for extra heartiness.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for meal prep or freezing for a future meal.
- Crowd-Pleasing: A dish that feeds a group without breaking the bank.
Ingredients Overview
This baked ziti recipe brings together pantry staples and a few key ingredients that work together to create a comforting and satisfying meal. The combination of mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta ensures every bite is packed with creamy, cheesy goodness. Marinara sauce provides a rich and flavorful base, while the option to add meats or vegetables lets you make this dish your own.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and position a rack in the center. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 12 minutes, until softened. Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using), marinara sauce, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Season with black pepper, then simmer the sauce for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti or penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
Step 3: Add half of the marinara sauce (about 3 cups) to the pasta and toss to coat. In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, ¼ cup Parmesan, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Gently fold the ricotta mixture into the pasta, leaving pockets of cheese for a creamy texture.
Step 4: Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pasta. Add the remaining pasta mixture and spread it evenly. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, and sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup Parmesan.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling and the cheese is golden brown. Let the baked ziti cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Baked Ziti
- Don’t Skimp on Sauce: Use plenty of marinara to keep the dish moist and flavorful.
- Layer Strategically: Make sure the pasta is well-sauced before layering to ensure even cooking.
- Folding vs. Layering Ricotta: Folding the ricotta into the pasta will help avoid dry, grainy spots.
- Golden-Brown Cheese: Bake uncovered for that perfect, crispy, golden top.
- Make It Your Own: Add cooked sausage, ground beef, or roasted vegetables to customize the dish.
Variations to Try
- Add Sausage: Stir in some cooked sausage for a meaty version of baked ziti.
- Add Vegetables: Try spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.
- Use Ricotta Alternatives: Swap out ricotta with cottage cheese or a vegan alternative.
- Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Add extra mozzarella or Parmesan for a cheesy, melty topping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or any tubular pasta with ridges works well for holding the sauce.
Q: How do I make this vegetarian?
A: Omit the meat and add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or even use plant-based meat alternatives.
Q: Can I freeze baked ziti?
A: Yes! Let the dish cool completely, wrap it tightly in foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish a day before and refrigerate it, then simply bake when ready to serve.
Q: What can I serve with baked ziti?
A: Baked ziti pairs perfectly with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerating:
Allow the baked ziti to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing:
Cool the baked ziti and wrap it tightly with foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. You can freeze it whole or in individual portions.
Reheating from the Refrigerator:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes or until heated through.
Reheating from the Freezer:
Thaw frozen ziti overnight in the fridge. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), and bake covered for 50–60 minutes, uncovering it for the last 10 minutes to brown the cheese.
Pro Tips:
- Add a splash of marinara sauce before reheating to maintain moisture.
- For an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle additional mozzarella or Parmesan before reheating.
Conclusion
Easy Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a cheesy trio that creates a dish everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or to feed a crowd, this recipe promises to deliver every time. The gooey, melted cheese and perfectly sauced pasta make it a satisfying, filling dish.
This dish is versatile and can easily be customized to fit your tastes. Add extra vegetables, proteins, or even more cheese to create the perfect version for your table. Best of all, it’s simple to make, even for novice cooks, and can be prepared ahead of time for a hassle-free meal.
We hope this Easy Baked Ziti becomes a staple in your kitchen. It’s ideal for busy days or special occasions, offering a comforting meal that everyone can enjoy. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more delicious recipes to inspire your next meal!
