What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade baked ziti is a comforting classic that’s perfect for cozy nights in or feeding a crowd. You’ll love how simple it is to make, with layers of cheesy goodness and rich marinara sauce. First, it’s a one-pan wonder—minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal. Second, it’s super customizable—add your favorite veggies, meats, or spices to make it your own. Finally, it tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead dish for busy weeks.
Recipe
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe combines pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese for a dish that’s hearty and satisfying. It’s simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes:
- For a meatier version, add cooked ground beef, sausage, or Italian sausage to the sauce before mixing with the pasta.
- Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if preferred.
Equipment:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing bowl
- Oven
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American
Serving: Serves 6-8
Nutrition
The nutritional information provided is based on a standard recipe for baked ziti, assuming a serving size of one cup.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 35 mg |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 40 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Protein | 18 g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my baked ziti with warm garlic bread—it’s perfect for soaking up the sauce and adds a crispy, flavorful bite. A fresh salad on the side balances the richness with bright, crunchy greens and a tangy dressing. These pairings make the meal feel complete and satisfying every time.
Garlic Bread Pairing
When serving baked ziti, I can’t imagine skipping garlic bread—it’s the perfect side to scoop up any extra sauce and balance the richness of the dish. The crispy, buttery slices add texture and a garlicky punch that complements the cheesy pasta. I like to toast mine until golden, with just enough crunch to hold up against the ziti’s saucy goodness. It’s simple but transformative, turning a hearty meal into something even more satisfying. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—no one ever turns down warm garlic bread. Trust me, it’s the little things like this that make dinner feel extra special.
Fresh Salad Option
Though baked ziti and garlic bread make a hearty combo, adding a fresh salad can lighten things up and round out the meal perfectly. I love tossing together a simple mix of crisp romaine, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a sprinkle of shredded carrots. A tangy vinaigrette, like balsamic or lemon-olive oil, adds a zesty kick that cuts through the richness of the ziti. Sometimes, I’ll throw in some croutons or grated Parmesan for extra crunch. It’s quick to prepare and makes the whole dinner feel balanced. Trust me, this invigorating side complements the ziti’s bold flavors beautifully.
