Classic Comfort Food Baked Ziti

Name: Classic Comfort Food Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Cooking Favorites

I always find myself craving baked ziti when I want something warm and satisfying. The combination of cheesy goodness with hearty pasta is a classic that never disappoints. I love to make this dish when I'm entertaining guests or simply enjoying a cozy night in. With layers of rich marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella, and fresh herbs, it’s a dish that comforts both the spirit and the stomach. Trust me, once you try this baked ziti, you'll understand why it's one of my go-to recipes.

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:07:17.124Z

Preparing baked ziti brings back memories of family dinners filled with laughter and stories. I remember the first time I attempted this dish, the aroma of tomato sauce wafting through the house was enough to make everyone gather in the kitchen. I learned that the secret is in using high-quality ingredients, especially the cheese, which makes all the difference in flavor.

What I love most is that it's a forgiving recipe; if you don’t have ziti, you can use penne or even fusilli. Adding a sprinkle of fresh basil on top just before serving elevates the dish and adds a beautiful touch. It's truly a comfort food that warms the heart.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Layers of gooey cheese that stretch with every bite
Hearty pasta combined with rich marinara sauce
A fantastic make-ahead dish perfect for gatherings

      

The Importance of Cheese Mixing

When preparing baked ziti, the choice and mixing of cheese can greatly influence the final texture and taste. Ricotta cheese serves as a creamy base that melds beautifully with the marinara sauce, while mozzarella contributes the gooey stretch that everyone loves. I always recommend mixing them thoroughly to ensure an even distribution, resulting in every bite being rich and satisfying. The combination creates layers of flavor that elevate the dish beyond just pasta and sauce.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with cheeses if you’re feeling adventurous. For a sharper flavor, consider adding a bit of provolone or fontina to the mix. Just remember, the key to achieving the perfect melt is to opt for fresh cheeses rather than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain stabilizers that hinder melting. This attention to detail in cheese selection makes a remarkable difference in texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Baked ziti is an excellent make-ahead option that can save you time during busy days. You can prepare the entire dish, assemble it, and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil to prevent it from drying out. When ready to bake, you may need to add an extra few minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.

If you want to store leftovers, baked ziti can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, make sure to cool the dish completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, I recommend thawing overnight in the fridge before heating it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it's hot and bubbly, about 20-30 minutes.

Perfect Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving baked ziti, pairing it with a fresh salad can complement the richness of the dish nicely. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette brightens up the meal and adds some freshness. For a heartier side, garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks can round out the meal, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top before serving for an extra burst of flavor. These small touches enhance both the presentation and the taste of the baked ziti, making it an unforgettable dish for any gathering.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Classic Comfort Food Baked Ziti

For the Baked Ziti

12 oz ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Mix all ingredients thoroughly for the best flavor!

Preparing Your Baked Ziti

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, one cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add the cooked ziti to the sauce mixture and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.

Bake the Ziti

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious baked ziti!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavorful dish, consider adding sautéed vegetables or cooked ground beef to the sauce mixture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your baked ziti is too dry after baking, it could be due to insufficient sauce. Ensure you use a generous amount of marinara and mix it well with the pasta before transferring it to the baking dish. Alternatively, adding a splash of water or broth before covering it with foil can create steam and help retain moisture during baking.

Another common issue is uneven cooking, where the top may bubble while the insides remain cold. To prevent this, mix the pasta and sauce thoroughly, and when baking, try covering with foil for the first half of the baking time. This will help distribute heat evenly before allowing the top to crisp up beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Needs

For those with dietary restrictions, baked ziti can easily be adapted. For a gluten-free version, simply swap the ziti pasta with gluten-free pasta; just be sure to adjust the cooking time as gluten-free varieties may require different cooking times. Always check package instructions to ensure optimal results.

If you're looking to reduce dairy, consider using a plant-based ricotta or mozzarella. There are several delicious nut-based cheeses on the market that mimic the texture and flavor of traditional cheeses quite well. Just keep in mind that these substitutions may alter the overall taste slightly, but they can still deliver a satisfying dish.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

Baked ziti is a versatile recipe that can easily be scaled for larger gatherings or smaller portions. To double the recipe, use a 12x18 inch baking dish and increase your cooking time by about 10 to 15 minutes. Always ensure the center has reached at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's heated through.

Conversely, if you’re preparing a smaller meal, you can halven the ingredients and bake the dish in an 8x8 inch dish. Baking time may reduce by a few minutes, so keep an eye on the cheese until it’s melting and golden to your preference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as alternatives, though the texture may vary slightly.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! Just make sure to freeze it before baking, and when ready to serve, bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra time if needed.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit any meat and consider adding more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.