Comfort Food Baked Ziti

Name: Comfort Food Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti pasta; 1 pound ground beef or sausage; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 24 ounces marinara sauce; 15 ounces ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Food

I absolutely love making baked ziti because it brings back fond memories of gatherings with family and friends. The combination of perfectly cooked pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey cheese makes this dish a comforting classic in my home. It’s so satisfying to know that every layer is bursting with flavor, and the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare! This dish serves as a wholesome meal that everyone loves, and it’s perfect for leftovers too.

Created by

Ivy Sanderson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:45:36.337Z

Every time I bake ziti, I remember the first time I made it for my friends. I wanted to create something that was filling yet comforting, and the recipe turned out to be a huge hit. The layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheesy goodness meld perfectly as they bake, making it an irresistible meal. It’s a great way to bring people together, and I’ve enjoyed adapting this classic to include our favorite ingredients over the years.

One of my favorite tips is to let it rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This allows the flavors to deepen and makes it easier to serve. I also like to sprinkle some fresh basil on top before serving for a burst of flavor and color. Try serving it with a side salad for the ultimate comfort meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Layers of gooey melted cheese that stretch beautifully with each bite
Customizable with your favorite add-ins like veggies or different meats
Perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day

      

Perfect Pasta Handling

Cooking the ziti pasta to the right texture is crucial for the overall outcome of the dish. It's best to cook the pasta just until al dente since it will continue cooking while baking. Aim for about 8 minutes in boiling salted water, but keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. You want a firm bite that can hold up to the layers of meat sauce and cheese without becoming mushy.

After draining the pasta, consider tossing it with a bit of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. This small step can make assembly easier later on. Additionally, if you’re making this dish in advance, you might want to undercook the pasta slightly, as it will soften further during baking.

Elevating Your Meat Sauce

The meat sauce is the heart of baked ziti, and the choice of ground meat can greatly influence the flavor. While ground beef and sausage are popular, feel free to experiment with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be mindful of the fat content, as a little richness helps create a luscious sauce.

Don't skip the simmering step! Allowing the marinara sauce and cooked meat to meld for about 10 minutes enhances the flavors and helps create a cohesive, well-seasoned dish. You can also add red pepper flakes for some heat or vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you’re planning to make ahead or have leftovers, baked ziti stores beautifully. To refrigerate, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze it by assembling the dish without baking, wrapping it in foil, and placing it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When reheating, whether from the fridge or freezer, it’s essential to do it gently. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil to retain moisture, and bake for about 25-30 minutes for refrigerated ziti, or 45-60 minutes if frozen. You want the cheese to be bubbly and the dish heated through without drying out.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your comfort food baked ziti a success:

Ingredients

1 pound ziti pasta
1 pound ground beef or sausage
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
24 ounces marinara sauce
15 ounces ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious baked ziti:

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Ziti

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your comforting baked ziti!

Pro Tips

For a vegetarian version, substitute meat with your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also use a marinara sauce that has a blend of herbs to enhance the flavor.

Delicious Variations

One of the best things about baked ziti is how adaptable it is. If you want to incorporate vegetables, consider adding spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meat sauce. Simply sauté them before combining with the sauce; this adds flavor and nutrition without compromising the dish's integrity.

For a twist, try swapping the ricotta cheese for cottage cheese for a lighter take. You can even add a layer of pesto for a flavorful twist that complements the marinara beautifully. Each variation will provide a unique flavor profile, making it possible to enjoy baked ziti in different ways every time.

Perfect Serving Suggestions

Baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad, giving you a complete meal. For the salad, a simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the rich ziti.

If you're hosting a gathering or a family dinner, serving this dish in a large, visually appealing baking dish can make a great presentation. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving for a pop of color and freshness that enhances both the visuals and flavor of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.

→ What kind of cheese can I use besides mozzarella?

You can use a mix of cheeses like provolone, gouda, or even a smoked cheese for a unique flavor twist.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes! Baked ziti freezes well. Just cool it completely before wrapping it tightly in foil and freezing for up to 3 months.

→ What’s a good side dish to serve with baked ziti?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with baked ziti to balance out its richness.