Comfort Food Baked Ziti

Name: Comfort Food Baked Ziti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 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 egg; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Hearty Recipes

I absolutely adore making Baked Ziti, as it brings back memories of cozy family dinners. This dish combines perfectly cooked pasta with a rich, creamy sauce and gooey cheese, making it ideal comfort food. What I love most is how easily it comes together, allowing me to enjoy quality time with my loved ones while it bakes to perfection. Whether it's a chilly evening or just a craving for something hearty, Baked Ziti never fails to satisfy. Trust me, you'll want to dive into this deliciousness!

Created by

Greer Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:25:35.533Z

Making Baked Ziti has always been a favorite of mine, especially when I’m looking to whip up a dish that brings everyone together. The blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and marinara sauce not only creates a beautiful layer of flavor but also a luscious texture. I like to add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top before baking for that extra aroma and flavor kick!

When I first tried this recipe, my family couldn't stop raving about it. The key here is to not overcook the pasta; you want it to firm up while baking. Also, let it rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the sauce to settle, which makes for a more enjoyable bite!

Why You'll Love This Baked Ziti
Cheesy goodness that stretches with every bite
Layered with rich flavors of marinara and ricotta
Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week

Understanding the Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients plays a pivotal role in how your Baked Ziti tastes. Opt for a high-quality marinara sauce or even make your own if time allows. A rich, flavorful sauce will create layers of taste throughout the dish. When using ricotta cheese, I recommend selecting a creamy, full-fat version; it contributes to the overall mouthfeel and richness, making each bite a delight. Don’t skimp on the cheeses, as they provide both flavor and that irresistible gooey texture everyone loves.

Egg in the cheese mixture may seem optional, but it serves an essential purpose—helping to bind the filling together while adding moisture. You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or silken tofu if you need a vegan option. Additionally, feel free to mix in some herbs or spices like crushed red pepper flakes for an added kick or fresh spinach for more nutrition. These are excellent ways to customize your Baked Ziti to your family’s tastes.

Perfecting the Assembly

Layering is crucial for achieving that desirable blend of flavors in baked dishes like Ziti. Start with a robust layer of marinara sauce at the base to prevent the pasta from sticking. When layering your ingredients, make sure to distribute the ricotta mixture evenly. This prevents any one area from becoming too dry or bland. Don't rush this step; taking time to create even layers enhances not just the taste but the visual appeal of your dish.

After baking, letting the Baked Ziti rest for about 5-10 minutes allows the layers to set properly, making it easier to serve. If you slice right away, it might fall apart! You want that first serving to beautifully showcase the distinct layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese. If you’re preparing this for a crowd, consider double layering the ingredients in a larger pan, ensuring every guest gets a hearty portion.

Ingredients for Comfort Food Baked Ziti

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 egg
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Baked Ziti.

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Layer the Dish

In a large baking dish, spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the ricotta mixture and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients.

Top and Bake

Finish with a layer of marinara sauce and sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the Baked Ziti rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Dig in and enjoy!

Enjoy your homemade Baked Ziti!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Baked Ziti is an excellent candidate for meal prepping. You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just keep the foil on to maintain moisture. For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled dish; make sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Unbaked, it can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to bake, it’s best to let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before popping it into the oven.

Reheating leftover Baked Ziti is straightforward. Simply cover the dish with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If you have a microwave, individual portions can be reheated in 1-2 minute increments until hot. Adding a splash of marinara sauce can help revive any lost moisture during storage.

Variations to Try

If you want to switch things up, consider adding vegetables to your Baked Ziti. Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be sautéed and layered between the pasta and cheese for added nutrition and flavor. For a protein boost, cooked ground meats like beef, sausage, or turkey can be mixed into the marinara sauce or layered inside for a hearty twist.

For a creamier texture, you might also try mixing some cream cheese or a bechamel sauce with the ricotta. This variation can lead to an incredibly rich dish that pairs beautifully with garlic bread. Vegan sources of cheese are also an excellent alternative for a dairy-free option, allowing everyone to indulge in the comforting goodness of Baked Ziti.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni for similar results.

→ Is this dish freezable?

Yes! Baked Ziti can be assembled and frozen before baking. Just thaw and bake as directed.

→ Can I make it vegetarian?

Definitely! Just use a vegetable-based marinara sauce and skip any meat additions.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.