Name: Cheesy Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti pasta 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage) 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce 1 container (15 ounces) ricotta cheese 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 large egg 1 small onion, diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt and pepper, to taste

Few things say comfort food like a bubbling, cheesy baked ziti straight from the oven. With layers of rich meat sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and melty mozzarella, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, baked ziti delivers flavor, heartiness, and smiles all around.

This baked ziti recipe is simple enough for a cozy weeknight dinner, yet indulgent enough for potlucks and gatherings. You’ll love the way the cheese gets golden and bubbly on top, and the way every bite is packed with savory, saucy goodness. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite proteins or vegetarian swaps.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Baked Ziti?

Ziti pasta is ideal because its hollow tubes hold onto the sauce beautifully. However, penne or rigatoni also work well in a pinch. Make sure to cook the pasta until just al dente, since it’ll continue to cook in the oven.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Baked Ziti

Ziti Pasta: This is the star of the dish and acts as the perfect vessel to trap all that delicious sauce and cheese.

Ground Beef (or Italian Sausage): Adds heartiness and depth. You can also use turkey or plant-based meat.

Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred or homemade variety. It’s the base for that classic Italian flavor.

Ricotta Cheese: Brings creaminess and richness to the layered filling.

Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully on top for that golden, stretchy cheese finish.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and helps balance the richness.

Egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture for a more structured, creamy layer.

Garlic & Onion: A must for building flavor right from the base.

Fresh Parsley or Basil: Adds brightness and a pop of color for garnish.

How To Make the Cheesy Baked Ziti

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the ziti until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, sauté chopped onions and garlic in a bit of olive oil until fragrant. Add ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned. Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to thicken and blend flavors.

Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Layer

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, an egg, a handful of Parmesan, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start with a layer of sauce, then half of the pasta, spoon half of the ricotta mixture, sprinkle mozzarella, and repeat the layers. Finish with a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the baked ziti cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Baked Ziti

Serve your baked ziti hot, straight from the oven, with a side salad and warm garlic bread. It’s a hearty dish on its own but pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a simple Caesar salad.

To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container once cooled. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze portions in individual containers for up to 3 months—perfect for quick, satisfying lunches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire dish up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

Do I have to use ricotta cheese?

Ricotta adds creaminess, but if you’re not a fan, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Just skip the meat and sauté vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach in place of the ground beef.

How do I keep baked ziti from drying out?

Make sure there’s enough sauce throughout the dish, and cover it with foil for the first part of baking to retain moisture.

What’s the best cheese for baked ziti?

A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan works perfectly, but feel free to add provolone or fontina for extra cheesiness.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne and rigatoni are great alternatives. Just avoid delicate shapes that might fall apart during baking.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If this Cheesy Baked Ziti has you craving more hearty pasta bakes and creamy comfort meals, don’t miss these delicious dishes:

Try the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a cozy one-pan wonder.
Looking for something spicier? The Red Pepper Rigatoni brings the heat with a bold creamy twist.
Need a weeknight favorite? One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta is fast and full of flavor.
Or check out the fun and easy Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce—a guaranteed family favorite.
And don’t skip the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole for the ultimate in comfort food layers.