This baked ziti is a comforting, oven-baked pasta dish layered with rich tomato meat sauce and a trio of creamy cheeses. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a family or serving at a casual gathering, with a golden, bubbly top that makes every bite irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers classic comfort with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. It’s filling without being complicated, easy to prepare ahead of time, and flexible enough to customize. The combination of tender pasta, savory sauce, and melted cheese makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound (450 g) ziti pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound (450 g) ground beef or halal chicken sausage, casings removed
2 cans (14 oz / 400 g each) tomato sauce or marinara sauce
½ cup (120 ml) water
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese
8 oz (225 g) mozzarella cheese, grated
½ cup (50 g) parmesan cheese, grated
Directions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and lightly golden. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef or halal chicken sausage to the pan. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 4 to 5 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, chili flakes, and oregano.
Pour in the tomato sauce and water, stir well, and let the sauce simmer for 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Combine the cooked pasta with the remaining meat sauce. Spoon half of the pasta mixture into the dish. Dot with half of the ricotta cheese, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and half of the parmesan.
Add the remaining pasta mixture on top. Dot with the remaining ricotta cheese and finish with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden on top. Let rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
You can substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version. Add sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. For a creamier texture, mix a little mozzarella directly into the pasta before baking.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (180°C) oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish up to one day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Yes, baked ziti freezes very well either before or after baking when stored properly.
What pasta can I use instead of ziti?
Penne or rigatoni work well as substitutes because they hold the sauce similarly.
How do I prevent baked ziti from drying out?
Make sure there is enough sauce and keep the dish covered while reheating.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables or use a meat-free alternative.
Is ricotta necessary?
Ricotta adds creaminess, but you can substitute it with cottage cheese if preferred.
Can I use homemade tomato sauce?
Absolutely, homemade tomato sauce works perfectly and adds extra freshness.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The cheese should be fully melted and lightly golden, and the dish should be bubbling around the edges.
Can I reduce the cheese?
Yes, you can slightly reduce the cheese amounts, though the dish will be less rich.
What can I serve with baked ziti?
A simple green salad or roasted vegetables pair well with this hearty dish.
Conclusion
This baked ziti recipe is a timeless comfort food that’s easy to prepare and always satisfying. With layers of flavorful sauce, tender pasta, and melted cheese, it’s a reliable choice for family meals, gatherings, or make-ahead dinners that everyone will enjoy.
