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: 1 pound ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 15 ounces ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Heritage

I absolutely love making Classic Comfort Food Baked Ziti, as it reminds me of family gatherings and cozy nights in. The delightful layers of pasta, savory marinara, and ooey-gooey cheese create a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a potluck with friends, this baked ziti is my go-to recipe. It's a simple dish that never fails to impress with its hearty flavors, and I can't wait to share how easy it is to whip up this favorite.

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:52:13.571Z

When I first tried making baked ziti, I was surprised at how easy it was to create such a satisfying meal. I experimented with different cheeses and sauces, but what truly elevated my dish was a sprinkle of fresh basil before serving. This little touch not only added color but also a burst of flavor that complemented the richness of the cheese and meat.

Over the years, I've learned that letting the baked ziti rest for a few minutes after coming out of the oven allows the layers to set perfectly. It may be tempting to dive right in, but this patience ensures clean slices and a more enjoyable texture. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Versatile: customize with your favorite proteins and veggies.
The cheese crust on top adds a deliciously cheesy finish.

Perfecting Your Pasta

The choice of pasta is crucial in this baked ziti recipe. Ziti is great because its tubular shape captures the sauce and cheese, ensuring every bite is flavorful. If you're in the mood for a twist, consider using penne or rigatoni. Both have similar shapes but offer slight variations in texture and bite. Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente; it will finish cooking in the oven, preventing it from becoming mushy.

When boiling your ziti, be generous with the salt in the water—this enhances the pasta's flavor significantly. After draining, a quick rinse isn't necessary; you want the starches to help the sauce cling to the pasta. If the pasta cools too quickly, toss it with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together as you prepare the sauce.

Layering for Flavor

Layering is essential in achieving a balanced baked ziti. Start with a base of pasta to absorb some of the marinara sauce; this prevents the top layers from becoming overly dry. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle some additional cheese between layers; it enhances the overall creaminess and binds everything together. I recommend using low-moisture mozzarella for the top layer, as it melts beautifully and creates a fantastic golden crust.

When spreading the meat sauce, ensure even coverage. This step not only helps to distribute the flavors but also adds moisture to the dish. If you prefer a bit of kick, consider stirring in some red pepper flakes into the meat sauce for added heat. Experiment with different cheeses for the topping too, like provolone or gouda, for a unique twist.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Baked ziti is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire dish and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. If preparing in advance, consider underbaking it slightly before storing; it can then be popped in the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes on baking day to heat through. This method not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they meld together overnight.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days in the fridge or frozen for up to two months. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a low oven, about 350°F (175°C), for 25-30 minutes. You can add a splash of water to keep the ziti moist. Serve with a fresh green salad and crusty bread to round out your meal beautifully.

Ingredients

For the pasta and sauce

1 pound ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the cheese mixture

15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 egg
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Steps

Prepare the pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the meat

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain excess fat and add marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine cheese mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and half of the basil. Mix until smooth.

Assemble the ziti

In a large baking dish, layer half of the pasta, followed by half of the meat sauce, and half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute the meat with ricotta or vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best features of baked ziti is its versatility. While the traditional recipe calls for ground beef or sausage, you can easily swap in shredded chicken, turkey, or even plant-based proteins like lentils or tofu for a vegetarian option. Consider adding in sautéed vegetables—such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms—into the meat sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.

For a bit of zest, try incorporating a layer of pesto between the cheese and pasta layers or using a spicy marinara. You can also top the ziti with breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil before the final baking for a crunchy texture contrast on top that's simply irresistible.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your baked ziti turns out too dry, it might be due to overbaking or not having enough sauce. Always keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes of baking and cover with foil if it starts browning too quickly. If you find yourself with dry leftovers, a spoonful of marinara or a drizzle of olive oil when reheating can revive the moisture.

On the other hand, if you experience a watery consistency, check to see if you added too much sauce or if the pasta wasn’t packed tightly enough in the layers. Pressing the layers down gently ensures that everything melds together during baking. In the future, you can also reduce the sauce slightly before adding it for a thicker consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or a dairy-free alternative can work well if you're looking for a substitute.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, or microwave in portions until heated through.