Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering. With its hearty combination of ziti pasta, savory marinara sauce, and a generous amount of melted cheese, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this baked ziti recipe will satisfy your cravings for something warm and cheesy.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti pasta (or penne pasta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (or homemade sauce)
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to the package directions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Combine with Marinara Sauce
Pour in the marinara sauce, stirring to combine. Season the sauce with basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Mix the Ricotta Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and well combined. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Assemble the Baked Ziti
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the marinara sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly. Add the ricotta mixture and mix again until fully incorporated.
6. Transfer to a Baking Dish
Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
7. Bake the Ziti
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
8. Serve
Once the ziti is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a touch of color and extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Baked Ziti:
- Add Meat: For a meaty version, add cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken to the sauce before mixing with the pasta.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to add more types of cheese like provolone or fontina for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake it right before serving.
- Leftovers: Baked ziti makes great leftovers! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven or microwave.
This baked ziti is the ultimate comfort food—easy to make, cheesy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it to guests, it’s a satisfying dish that will always be a hit. Pair it with a simple side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal!