Sunday Baked Ziti

Name: Sunday Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Golden Sweets

I absolutely cherish Sunday evenings, and my favorite way to wind down is with a cozy dish of baked ziti. This recipe is a delightful combination of al dente pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s simple enough to prepare but packs a punch in flavor, making it perfect for family gatherings or a lazy weeknight. I often add my twist with a hint of Italian herbs, which elevates the overall taste and rounds out this comforting classic beautifully.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-06T09:58:12.570Z

In my attempts to perfect this dish, I experimented with numerous variations of cheese and sauce. One of my favorite discoveries was adding a splash of cream to the marinara, lending a richness that enhances the overall depth of flavor. Additionally, letting the baked ziti sit for about 10 minutes before serving allows the layers to set properly, making it much easier to serve.

Serving this dish on a Sunday night has become a lovely tradition in my home. It not only fills our bellies but also our hearts, as we gather around the table to share stories and laughter. This is why I believe baked ziti is more than just a meal; it’s a way to connect and create memories.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Satisfying layers of flavor in every bite
Cheesy goodness that is universally adored
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weekends

The Role of Cheese in Baked Ziti

Cheese is the star of baked ziti, and it plays a crucial role in achieving that gooey, melty texture we all crave. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a balanced flavor profile where the ricotta provides creaminess, while mozzarella offers stretchiness and a mild flavor that melds beautifully with the robust marinara. I recommend using whole-milk ricotta for added richness, as it enhances the overall mouthfeel and taste of the dish.

Don’t be afraid to mix it up! You can substitute part of the mozzarella with provolone or gouda to add a smoky depth to the dish. Just remember to adjust your baking time if you use a cheese that browns more quickly, keeping an eye on the edges to prevent burning.

Layering for Success

Layering is key to perfecting your baked ziti. It not only contributes to better flavor distribution but also ensures that each bite has the right balance of pasta, cheese, and sauce. Start by spreading marinara on the bottom to prevent sticking, then alternate layers of ziti, cheese mixture, and sauce. This structure helps the pasta absorb the flavors while maintaining a pleasing texture throughout, without becoming overly soggy.

When assembling, don’t hesitate to add extra fillings like sautéed vegetables or cooked sausage for a hearty twist. This can enhance the nutritional value and keep the dish exciting, especially if you're serving a crowd.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a perfect baked ziti:

Ingredients

1 pound ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious baked ziti:

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.

Assemble the Dish

In a large baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture, half of the mozzarella, and some more sauce. Repeat the layering process and finish with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake the Ziti

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the baked ziti sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.

This baked ziti is sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins like ground turkey or Italian sausage. This recipe is incredibly versatile.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Baked ziti is an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare it entirely in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just ensure you add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will go in cold from the fridge.

Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to four days in the refrigerator. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through—around 20-25 minutes. You can also freeze the unbaked ziti for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your baked ziti is too dry after baking, it could be due to the pasta absorbing too much sauce during cooking. To combat this, always make sure your marinara is generous, and consider adding a splash of water before baking to keep it moist. If the cheese is not melting to your liking, a quick broil for 2-3 minutes at the end can give you that gorgeous golden finish.

On the flip side, if your dish turns out too watery, it may be that the marinara sauce was too thin or that excess moisture was introduced from the ricotta. Next time, try straining the ricotta to remove excess liquid and opting for a thicker sauce to maintain optimal consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare baked ziti in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the baked ziti a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese as a lighter alternative, or even cream cheese for a richer texture.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes, baked ziti freezes well. Just wrap it tightly before freezing, and it can last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

→ Is baked ziti suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly! Just be sure to check your sauce for any meat ingredients.