Baked Ziti Recipe

Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food—each bite is bursting with gooey cheese, robust marinara, and savory Italian sausage layered over perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is pure coziness in a casserole dish and is guaranteed to bring families together around the table!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Baked Ziti is in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that hearty, Italian-inspired flavor. Here’s how every component contributes extra magic to each bite!

• Ziti or penne pasta (16 oz): Either shape works beautifully for holding onto sauce and cheese—but ziti is the classic choice for the iconic texture.
• Olive oil (1 tbsp + more for drizzling): Adds richness and prevents the pasta from clumping together after cooking.
• Italian sausage (1 lb): Infuses the dish with spiced, meaty flavor; use hot or mild based on your personal preference.
• Marinara sauce (32 oz): A robust, tomato-based sauce ties everything together and keeps the casserole moist and delicious.
• Ricotta cheese (15 oz): The creamy heart of the filling—ricotta adds lightness and a luxurious melt.
• Large egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture so every scoop holds together just right.
• Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, divided): Melts into stretchy, golden perfection both inside and on top of the ziti.
• Parmesan cheese (3/4 cup, divided): Brings nutty, salty depth throughout the dish and finishes it with a savory crust.
• Fresh basil (2 tbsp, chopped): Brightens up the richness and adds a pop of herby freshness.
• Italian seasoning (1 tsp): For an aromatic, quintessentially “pizza parlor” taste.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Toss some in if you like a gentle kick of heat.
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste: Don’t forget to season as you go—every element shines with the right balance.
• Chopped basil, for garnish: A sprinkle of green brings freshness and color to your finished platter.

Variations

Part of the fun with Baked Ziti is making it your own! Whether you have dietary needs or simply want to mix things up, there are endless ways to customize your casserole for the perfect family favorite.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a satisfying meatless option.
• Spicy Ziti: Use hot Italian sausage and a little extra red pepper flakes if you crave some heat in your comfort food.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep all the flavor and none of the gluten.
• Extra Veggie: Stir in roasted bell peppers, onions, or eggplant for added nutrition and color in every bite.
• Cheese Lover’s Ziti: Add dollops of creamy burrata or provolone slices for more melty, decadent cheese layers.

How to Make Baked Ziti

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a big pot of well-salted water and cook your ziti (or penne) until just al dente—this keeps the pasta toothsome and prevents it from turning mushy while baking. Drain thoroughly, drizzle with a touch of olive oil, and toss gently to keep it from sticking together as you prep the rest.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the Italian sausage. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until no pink remains, about 5–7 minutes. Drain away any excess fat for a lighter, cleaner flavor and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Cheesy Ricotta Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, half of the mozzarella and Parmesan, chopped basil, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Season generously with salt and black pepper—it’s this creamy mixture that delivers unbeatable richness and holds everything together.

Step 4: Assemble the Ziti Layers

Gently mix the ricotta filling into the warm pasta, add in the cooked sausage and marinara sauce, and stir everything until beautifully combined. Take care not to break up the pasta too much—those tube shapes catch bits of cheese and sauce just perfectly.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Spread the ziti mixture into your prepared baking dish. Scatter the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top for that irresistible golden cheese crust. Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and gloriously browned.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

Let the baked ziti sit out of the oven for five minutes—this little pause keeps every serving neat and allows the flavors to settle. Finish with a scatter of fresh basil if you’d like, then serve hot and bubbly!

How to Serve Baked Ziti

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds color and a burst of freshness, while a drizzle of good olive oil right before serving gives your Baked Ziti that restaurant-worthy finish. If you’re feeling bold, an extra dusting of grated Parmesan never hurts!

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette is a bright contrast to the rich, cheesy ziti. Garlic bread or a rustic Italian loaf is ideal for scooping up the extra sauce—you’ll want every last drop. Roasted vegetables or sautéed greens also round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, serve baked ziti in individual ramekins—guests get their own adorable bubbling casserole. Or turn leftovers into a “ziti bar” buffet with fun toppings (more cheese, chili flakes, fresh herbs) and let everyone customize their plate. It’s a casual, interactive way to entertain!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Ziti will keep happily in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors deepen and meld, making it somehow even tastier the next day—perfect for quick lunches or a second round of dinner.

Freezing

Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly with foil or transfer to a lidded freezer-safe container. It will freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

Reheating

For best results, reheat portions in a 350°F oven, tightly covered with foil to retain moisture, until warmed through. The microwave also works for quick lunches—just add a splash of marinara if the pasta seems a bit dry.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you need a meal that feeds a crowd, warms your soul, and fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas, give this Baked Ziti a try! It’s a love letter to Italian comfort food, and once you make it, you’ll want it on repeat all year long. Enjoy every bubbly, cheesy bite!

Print