Name: Cheesy Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti pasta; 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage; 4 cups marinara sauce; 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

I’ve always had a soft spot for comforting, hearty pasta dishes that feed both the stomach and the soul. Cheesy Baked Ziti is one of those recipes that never fails to deliver. Whether I’m cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or preparing a dish to impress a crowd, this recipe always comes through with creamy ricotta, bold marinara, hearty meat, and bubbly melted cheese that stretch with every scoop. It’s like lasagna’s more laid-back cousin—less fussy, just as indulgent.

What I love most about making Cheesy Baked Ziti is the way it fills the kitchen with rich, garlicky, tomato-saucy aromas that signal something truly satisfying is coming. It’s a dish layered with love: tender pasta, creamy cheeses, a flavorful meat sauce, and that golden, cheesy crust on top that everyone fights over. And best of all, it’s simple to throw together, yet tastes like you spent all day cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Ziti

Easy to Make: With just a few pantry staples, this dish comes together quickly.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or feeding a hungry group.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance and bake it later—ideal for busy schedules.
Customizable: Add veggies, switch up the meat, or go vegetarian. This recipe is flexible.
Ultimate Comfort Food: Every bite is rich, cheesy, and deeply satisfying.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Cheesy Baked Ziti?

Ziti is the traditional choice—and for good reason. Its smooth, tubular shape is perfect for trapping sauce inside and layering evenly in the baking dish. But don’t worry if you can’t find ziti at your local store. Rigatoni is a great substitute; its ridges hold onto more sauce, giving each bite extra flavor. Penne works too, though it’s a little smaller. Just make sure you choose a sturdy pasta that won’t fall apart during baking.

Cook the pasta just shy of al dente since it will continue to soften in the oven. That way, it absorbs more of the sauce without turning mushy.

Options for Substitutions

Meat Options
Ground beef is the classic pick, but Italian sausage adds incredible depth and a touch of spice. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner take. Prefer a meatless version? Sauté mushrooms or chopped spinach for a hearty vegetarian swap.

Cheese Choices
Ricotta is essential for creaminess, but cottage cheese works well if you prefer a lighter option. Want more richness? Add a layer of mascarpone. As for the gooey topping, mozzarella is a must, but a blend of provolone, fontina, or even sharp cheddar can add extra flair.

Sauce Variations
Store-bought marinara keeps things easy, especially on busy nights, but a homemade tomato sauce adds a more personalized touch. You can also stir in a bit of pesto or cream for a twist.

Pasta Alternatives
As mentioned, rigatoni or penne are great substitutes for ziti. For a gluten-free version, opt for chickpea or rice-based pasta. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold up in the bake.

Ingredients for This Cheesy Baked Ziti

Each ingredient in this recipe brings something essential to the table—whether it’s bold flavor, creamy texture, or satisfying structure. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Ziti Pasta
The foundation of the dish. Its tubular shape captures sauce inside, and it holds up well to baking.
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage
Adds savory depth and heartiness. You can choose based on your preferred flavor profile—beef for mild, sausage for spiced.
Marinara Sauce
Rich, tangy tomato sauce binds everything together. A good quality marinara makes a big difference in flavor.
Ricotta Cheese
This brings creaminess and a slight tang, creating luscious layers between the pasta and meat.
Mozzarella Cheese
The melty, stretchy topping everyone craves. It’s also mixed into the pasta for extra gooey goodness throughout.
Parmesan Cheese
Adds a sharp, salty note that balances the richness of the other cheeses.
Egg
Mixed with ricotta, it helps bind the cheese layer and adds lightness.
Garlic
Aromatic and essential for flavoring the meat and sauce. Fresh is best.
Olive Oil
Used to sauté the meat and garlic. It also adds richness and flavor.
Salt & Pepper
Seasoning is key! Enhances every layer of flavor in the dish.
Fresh Parsley or Basil (Optional)
A fresh herb garnish adds brightness and color just before serving.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti until just shy of al dente—about 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside. The pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so this keeps it from turning mushy.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Sauce

Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5–10 minutes to meld the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Mix the Ricotta Layer

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the grated Parmesan, a pinch of salt, and chopped parsley or basil if using. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Baked Ziti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with half of the meat sauce and half of the shredded mozzarella. Stir until coated.

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of the saucy pasta. Spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture on top. Add another layer of meat sauce and repeat the layering until all ingredients are used. Finish with a generous layer of mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbling with golden edges. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

How Long to Cook the Cheesy Baked Ziti

The total baking time for Cheesy Baked Ziti is about 30 to 35 minutes:

20 minutes covered with foil to trap moisture and help everything heat through without drying out.
10 to 15 minutes uncovered to allow the cheese on top to bubble, melt, and develop that irresistible golden crust.

Let the ziti rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This makes it easier to slice and serve, and helps the layers settle beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Baked Ziti

Undercook the Pasta: Just slightly! Since it continues to cook in the oven, this helps avoid mushy noodles.
Use a Flavorful Sauce: Whether jarred or homemade, make sure your marinara is rich and well-seasoned. A bland sauce will make the whole dish fall flat.
Layer with Purpose: Don’t just dump it all in—layering pasta, ricotta, sauce, and cheese gives you that “lasagna effect” with delicious bites every time.
Mix Cheese Throughout: Stir some mozzarella into the pasta mix before baking so it’s cheesy all the way through, not just on top.
Let It Rest: Give the baked ziti 10 minutes to sit before scooping. It holds its shape better and won’t fall apart on the plate.
Use a Big Enough Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect. Anything smaller and you risk overflow.
Add Herbs for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley right before serving brightens up the richness of the dish.
Double the Recipe: This freezes beautifully. Make one for now and one for later.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a cozy classic like Cheesy Baked Ziti can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are a few common slip-ups to avoid:

Overcooking the Pasta
Fully boiling the pasta before baking can turn it to mush. Aim for just under al dente since it finishes cooking in the oven.
Skipping the Seasoning
Taste every layer as you go, especially the meat and sauce. Bland layers can’t be fixed once it’s in the oven.
Using Too Much Sauce
While it’s tempting to drench everything, too much sauce leads to a soggy, soupy casserole. Stick to the recommended amount for that perfect balance.
Not Draining the Meat
Leaving excess grease in the pan will make your ziti greasy. After browning, always drain off fat if needed.
Skipping the Resting Time
Cutting right into it out of the oven makes it fall apart. Letting it rest for 10 minutes helps the dish firm up.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese Only
Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Grate fresh cheese for the best melt and flavor.
Forgetting to Cover It Initially
Baking it uncovered from the start will dry it out. Start with foil, then remove it to brown the cheese at the end.
Overcrowding the Dish
Don’t pack the baking dish too full. If doubling the recipe, use two pans to prevent uneven cooking.

What to Serve With Cheesy Baked Ziti?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery, and the perfect scoop for catching leftover sauce on your plate.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and salty Parmesan cut through the richness of the ziti.

Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil balance out the heaviness with bright acidity.

Sautéed Greens

Garlicky spinach, kale, or broccoli rabe offer a healthy and flavorful side.

Roasted Veggies

Try zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a roasted medley that complements the pasta.

Stuffed Mushrooms

Cheesy, herby mushrooms make a great starter that echoes the flavors of the ziti.

A Glass of Red Wine

Something like Chianti or Cabernet pairs beautifully with tomato-based baked pasta.

Lemon Sorbet (for dessert)

It’s light, refreshing, and a great way to cleanse the palate after a cheesy meal.

Storage Instructions

Cheesy Baked Ziti is one of those magical meals that tastes just as good (if not better) the next day. Here’s how to store it properly:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container or wrap the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: This dish freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil. You can also freeze individual portions in airtight containers. It will last for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- For the oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until heated through.
- For the microwave: Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals.

Pro tip: Add a spoonful of marinara before reheating to keep everything moist.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

Assuming the recipe serves 8:

Calories: 490–530
Protein: 25–30g
Carbohydrates: 45–50g
Fat: 22–26g
Saturated Fat: 10–12g
Cholesterol: 70–90mg
Sodium: 800–1000mg
Fiber: 3–5g
Sugar: 5–8g

Keep in mind that actual values may vary depending on the ingredients you use (especially sauces and cheese brands).

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep baked ziti from drying out?

Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking helps trap moisture. Also, don’t skimp on sauce—it’s key for a moist, flavorful bake. Just be sure not to overload it, or it’ll get soupy instead.

Can I make Cheesy Baked Ziti ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish up to 2 days in advance. Just cover tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for 30 minutes, then follow the usual baking instructions.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes! Just skip the meat and instead sauté mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to add bulk and flavor. You can also use plant-based meat substitutes if desired.

Can I freeze Cheesy Baked Ziti before baking?

Definitely. Assemble the ziti, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as usual—maybe add an extra 10–15 minutes to the baking time.

What’s the best cheese combo for this recipe?

A mix of mozzarella (for melt), ricotta (for creaminess), and Parmesan (for sharpness) works beautifully. You can also toss in provolone or fontina for added richness.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought is totally fine and a great time-saver. Just choose a good-quality one with minimal added sugar. Or spice it up with extra garlic, chili flakes, or herbs if you want more flavor.

How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Add a splash of marinara or water to the dish before reheating. Cover with foil if using the oven or a damp paper towel if microwaving. This keeps everything moist and melty.

What size baking dish should I use?

A standard 9×13-inch casserole dish works perfectly. If you’re doubling the recipe, divide it between two dishes for even baking.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Ziti is more than just a weeknight dinner—it’s comfort food at its finest. With its bubbly golden top, rich tomato-meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey cheese, it hits all the right notes for a satisfying meal. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and always a crowd favorite. Whether you’re feeding your family or freezing a tray for future cravings, this recipe is a keeper in every kitchen.