Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting pasta dish that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, you’ve got to try this Easy Baked Ziti Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with big smiles, and the best part is how simple it is to throw together. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend dinner, this recipe has saved me more times than I can count.

I absolutely love how this turns out – the sausage mingles perfectly with the tangy marinara, and that creamy ricotta layer gives it such a dreamy texture. Plus, you don’t have to fuss over every detail; once it’s in the oven, all you have to do is wait for that glorious golden bubbly cheese on top. You’ll find that Easy Baked Ziti Recipe quickly becomes a family favorite and a go-to when you need a home-cooked crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Easy Baked Ziti Recipe is in the blend of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. I always keep these pantry staples on hand, so it’s quick to whip up whether for a last-minute dinner or meal prep.

• Italian sausage: Adds savory richness—opt for mild or spicy depending on your taste.
• Yellow onion: Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed with the sausage.
• Pasta sauce or marinara: Choose a good-quality jar or homemade if you have the time.
• Canned diced tomatoes: With juices, they boost tomato flavor and add a fresh touch.
• Italian seasoning: Essential for that herby, classic Italian flavor.
• Water: Helps loosen the sauce to the perfect consistency when simmering.
• Ziti pasta: Holds sauce well; you can substitute penne if ziti is hard to find.
• Ricotta cheese: Adds creamy, luscious texture to the cheesy layer.
• Egg: Binds the cheese mixture for stability when baking.
• Fresh parsley: Brings a bright, fresh flavor and lovely color.
• Mozzarella cheese: For that melty, gooey topping everyone loves.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, savory bite to balance creaminess.
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish: Optional, but I love the fresh herb aroma.

Variations

I love how flexible this Easy Baked Ziti Recipe is—you can easily make it your own by tweaking proteins, cheeses, or spices. It’s a fantastic canvas for all kinds of flavor experiments or dietary adaptations.

• Swap the sausage: I’ve used ground beef or turkey with added garlic and Italian seasoning to great effect anytime I want something lighter.
• Add some heat: If you like a little kick, toss in a half-teaspoon of red pepper flakes when simmering the sauce—it gives it just the right zing.
• Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and double up on mushrooms or roasted veggies for a satisfying meatless version.
• Cheese boosts: Experiment with adding provolone or fontina for a richer cheese flavor.

How to Make Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Onion

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and cooking the Italian sausage and diced onion together. I like to break the sausage into small pieces with my spoon to ensure it cooks evenly and gets that perfect, crumbly texture. Once browned and fragrant, drain off any excess fat—this keeps the dish lighter and prevents greasiness in the sauce.

Step 2: Simmer the Sauce

Add the pasta sauce, canned diced tomatoes with their juices, Italian seasoning, and water to the pan. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens nicely. This step is where the flavors really meld, so don’t rush it. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed—you want a robust sauce that’s not too watery.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook the ziti in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente—it will continue cooking in the oven, so don’t overdo it or it might turn mushy. Drain it very well to avoid watery baked ziti later. If I’m in a hurry, I sometimes rinse the pasta briefly under warm water to stop it from cooking further.

Step 4: Mix the Cheese Layer

In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, chopped fresh parsley, 1 cup of mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. The egg acts as a binder, so the layer holds together beautifully when baked. I like to give this mixture a good stir until it’s smooth and creamy—no lumps here!

Step 5: Layer and Assemble

Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish and spread 1 cup of the sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Then layer half of the cooked ziti, spread the entire ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta, followed by half the remaining sauce. Repeat once more with the rest of the pasta, sauce, and finally sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top. I find this layering trick creates that perfect cheesy, saucy bite in every forkful.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Bake the dish uncovered in a preheated 375°F oven for 25-30 minutes or until you see the cheese on top turn golden and bubbly. If you want extra browning, crank the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes—just watch carefully so it doesn’t burn. When it comes out, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving; this helps it set a little for easier slicing.

How to Serve Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

Garnishes

I always sprinkle fresh basil or parsley right before serving because it brightens the rich, cheesy goodness and adds a little splash of color. Sometimes, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who like an extra touch of heat—those garnishes turn this dish from “classic comfort” to a bit of a flavor celebration.

Side Dishes

Pair your baked ziti with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of sauce. I also like steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans on the side to add a fresh, healthy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I bake the ziti in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets – it looks so charming and makes portion control easier. Another fun idea is serving it alongside a build-your-own salad bar, so everyone can customize their plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I like to put leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When refrigerated properly, the ziti keeps its texture nicely without getting mushy or dried out. Adding a little extra mozzarella cheese on top before reheating helps freshen it up.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! After assembling but before baking, I cover the dish tightly with foil and freeze it for up to 4 months. When I’m ready to bake, I thaw it overnight in the fridge, let it come to room temp for about 30 minutes, then bake as usual. It’s been a lifesaver on hectic nights.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, I pop them into a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 20 minutes, then remove the foil to crisp the cheese on top for another 5 minutes. If you’re microwaving, cover loosely to keep moisture in but heat gently in short bursts to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Baked Ziti Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s both simple and spectacular—perfect for those nights when I want wholesome comfort food without fuss. I hope you find it as reliable and delicious as I do, whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just craving something cozy. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be making this one again and again!

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