Cheesy Baked Ziti
A Classic Italian-American Comfort Dish Everyone Loves
Cheesy baked ziti is one of those dishes that instantly feels like home. It’s hearty, bubbling, golden on top, and layered with pasta, sauce, and cheese in the most satisfying way possible. Often served at family gatherings, holidays, potlucks, and Sunday dinners, baked ziti is beloved because it’s simple, affordable, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you make it with meat or keep it vegetarian, this dish always delivers comfort and big flavor.
This version focuses on maximum cheesiness, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta that holds up beautifully in the oven.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
Pasta:
- 1 pound (450 g) ziti pasta
- Water and salt for boiling
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound (450 g) Italian sausage or ground beef (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar (24 oz / 680 g) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
Cheese Layers:
- 15 oz (425 g) ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Add-Ins:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Sautéed mushrooms or spinach
Why Baked Ziti Is So Popular
Baked ziti has everything you want in a comfort dish: tender pasta, savory sauce, and lots of cheese. The pasta absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy, while baking allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt into irresistible layers. It’s forgiving, reheats beautifully, and tastes even better the next day.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ziti and cook until just al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions. This is crucial, as the pasta will continue cooking in the oven.
Drain the pasta and toss it lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5–6 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
If using meat, add the Italian sausage or ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Add the marinara sauce and crushed tomatoes. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.
3. Make the Ricotta Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth. This layer adds creaminess and richness that balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
4. Assemble the Baked Ziti
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the dish. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, half of the remaining sauce, and a generous handful of mozzarella.
Repeat the layers, finishing with a thick blanket of mozzarella on top. Sprinkle extra Parmesan for a golden crust.
5. Bake Until Bubbling
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Let the baked ziti rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes slicing easier.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cheesy baked ziti with:
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables or sautéed greens
A glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot pairs beautifully.
Variations & Customizations
- Extra cheesy: Add provolone or fontina cheese.
- Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add roasted vegetables.
- Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage.
- White baked ziti: Use Alfredo sauce instead of tomato.
- Four-cheese version: Mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and provolone.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing
- Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate.
- Freezing: Freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Why This Recipe Works
This cheesy baked ziti strikes the perfect balance between creamy and saucy, structured and gooey. Cooking the pasta al dente, simmering the sauce, and layering the cheese ensures every bite is satisfying. It’s a dish that feeds both body and soul.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy baked ziti is more than just pasta—it’s comfort, nostalgia, and generosity in a casserole dish. Easy to prepare and impossible to resist, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.