There’s something incredibly comforting about a bubbling dish of cheesy baked ziti.

This Italian-American classic has a way of bringing people together, whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends.

With layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s hard to resist diving in!

Table of Contents

Ingredient List

To create a delicious Cheesy Baked Ziti, gather the following ingredients:

Pasta

1 pound ziti pasta

Marinara Sauce

4 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Cheese

15 ounces ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound Italian sausage or a meat alternative (optional)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven
I start by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the Cheesy Baked Ziti cooks evenly and the cheese melts to perfection.
Cook the Ziti Pasta
In a large pot, I bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, I add 1 pound of ziti pasta and cook it for about 8 to 10 minutes until it’s al dente. I drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Sauce Mixture
In a large bowl, I combine 2 cups of marinara sauce and 15 ounces of ricotta cheese. I add in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning for that extra flavor boost. I mix everything until smooth and creamy.
Combine the Ingredients
I mix the cooked ziti pasta into the ricotta sauce mixture. This step helps ensure every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious cheesy goodness. I then fold in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for added creaminess.
Layer the Ziti
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, I pour half of the ziti mixture. I then spread an additional cup of marinara sauce over the top. Next, I layer the remaining ziti mixture and add another cup of marinara sauce. I finish by sprinkling 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake the Ziti
I cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. I bake it for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, I remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, I let the ziti sit for about 5 minutes before serving. I like to garnish it with freshly chopped basil to add a pop of color and flavor.

Recipe Notes & Variations

When making my Cheesy Baked Ziti, I love to play around with different ingredients and techniques to keep things exciting. Here are some notes and variations that I like to consider:

Ingredient Swaps

Pasta: While ziti is traditional, you can use penne or rigatoni for a fun twist. These shapes hold just as much sauce and cheese.
Cheese: Feel free to mix up the cheese. I sometimes add provolone for a bit of tang or pepper jack for a hint of spice. Goat cheese can also add creaminess and flavor.
Meat Options: Ground beef or turkey can replace Italian sausage. For a vegetarian option, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.

Flavor Enhancements

Spices: I often sprinkle red pepper flakes for a little heat. A touch of garlic powder can also elevate the flavor profile.
Fresh Herbs: Besides basil, I love adding chopped parsley or oregano for freshness and aroma.
Creaminess: For a richer sauce, mix in a splash of heavy cream or whole milk into the marinara sauce.

Topping Ideas

Panko Breadcrumbs: For a crispy topping, sprinkle a mixture of panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and Parmesan before the last 15 minutes of baking.
Extra Cheese: Add more mozzarella or a layer of fontina on top to create a gooey cheesy crust that melts beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: I often serve my ziti with a side of garlic bread and a simple salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Make-Ahead Tips: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. I usually assemble the ziti and cover it with foil in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time if going straight from the fridge.

Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through.
Freezing: I like to freeze portions of the baked ziti for later meals. Just wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and it can last for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate my Cheesy Baked Ziti experience, I love pairing this comforting dish with several delicious accompaniments.

Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

Garlic Bread: I always serve my baked ziti with a generous side of garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky toast complements the rich pasta beautifully and is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad balances the richness of the ziti. I often toss together a simple mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing enhances the flavors of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Serving a side of roasted vegetables adds both color and nutrition to the meal. I enjoy roasting bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli with olive oil, salt, and Italian herbs for a simple yet tasty addition.
Wine Pairing: For a touch of sophistication, I recommend pairing the ziti with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine’s robust flavor complements the savory marinara sauce and melted cheese perfectly.
Make-Ahead Option: If I’m looking to prepare a meal in advance, I often assemble the Cheesy Baked Ziti ahead of time. I store it in the fridge until I’m ready to bake it. This way, I can enjoy a hearty dinner without a lot of last-minute prep.
Toppings: Just before serving, I like to sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil on top of the ziti for a pop of flavor and freshness. You can also add crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.

These serving suggestions help turn my Cheesy Baked Ziti into a memorable meal that’s perfect for gatherings with family or friends.

Nutrition Information

When preparing my Cheesy Baked Ziti, I like to keep an eye on the nutrition to balance indulgence with health.

Below you will find a breakdown of the nutritional values per serving. This calculation is based on a serving size of about 1 cup.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450
Total Fat	20 g
Saturated Fat	10 g
Cholesterol	60 mg
Sodium	800 mg
Total Carbohydrates	50 g
Dietary Fiber	3 g
Sugars	6 g
Protein	20 g

This comforting dish provides a hearty meal with a good amount of protein from the cheeses and optional meat.

The carbohydrates from the pasta give a satisfying energy boost.

However, be mindful of the sodium and fat content, especially when using store-bought marinara or adding rich ingredients.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about sharing a warm dish of Cheesy Baked Ziti with loved ones.

It’s a meal that not only fills the belly but also warms the heart. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends this dish is sure to impress.

I love how versatile it is too. You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. So don’t hesitate to get creative with ingredients and toppings.

Next time you’re in the mood for comfort food give this recipe a try. I promise it’ll become a favorite in your home just like it has in mine. Enjoy every cheesy bite!