Best Baked Ziti Recipe That Will Steal the Show Every Time

You’ve got a craving for something comforting, but the last thing you want is another ho-hum pasta bake. You’ve been let down by recipes that leave you with dry, flavorless results. We get it. It’s frustrating when you put in the effort, only to be disappointed. But don’t worry. We’ve got a foolproof recipe for baked ziti that’s going to change everything.

This is the kind of meal that brings people together. Warm, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors, our baked ziti recipe has just the right mix of tradition and a little something extra to keep things exciting. Let’s get you from “meh” to “wow” in no time.

Ingredients for the Best Baked Ziti Recipe

The heart of any great baked ziti is the ingredients. Each one has a purpose, and when combined, they create something greater than the sum of its parts.

• Ziti or Penne Pasta: Holds up well to baking and soaks up all the saucy goodness.
• Ground Beef and Italian Sausage: A mix of meats adds richness and a little spice.
• Onion and Garlic: The aromatic base that gives the sauce its depth.
• Marinara Sauce: Go for a jarred option you love or make your own. This is the soul of the dish.
• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy, slightly tangy, and the perfect contrast to the savory sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, stretchy top layer.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, nutty notes that elevate every bite.
• Egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture, so it doesn’t slide around.
• Lemon Zest: A surprising twist that brightens the cheese mixture and balances the richness.
• Herbs and Spices: Basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and a touch of red pepper flakes for a kick.

For another pasta-based inspiration, explore our flavorful spaghetti aglio e olio recipe for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

How to Cook the Best Baked Ziti at Home

Prep Work

Before you start, preheat your oven to 375°F. Gather all your ingredients, and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil your ziti or penne in salted water until it’s just al dente. Drain it and toss it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

In a large skillet, sauté diced onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Toss in the ground beef and sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease. Stir in marinara sauce, dried basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 15 minutes.

The marinara sauce is the backbone of any good baked ziti. If you’re curious about the terminology or want to deepen your understanding of sauces, dive into our guide on essential sauce terms. This knowledge can transform a simple dish into something extraordinary.

For a similar pasta dish with a bold twist, try our zesty lemon pesto pasta recipe.

Step 3: Mix the Cheeses

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, an egg, and a bit of salt and pepper. Add the zest of one lemon—this is our secret ingredient. It cuts through the richness and adds an unexpected pop of flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Start with a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Add half the pasta, followed by half the remaining sauce. Drop dollops of the ricotta mixture over the sauce, then sprinkle with mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake It to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Getting that golden, bubbly top on your baked ziti is all about timing and temperature. Learn foolproof baking techniques with our helpful guide on roasting techniques to ensure perfectly even cooking and presentation.

Absolute Best Baked Ziti Recipe

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What Makes Baked Ziti Unique Compared to Other Pasta Dishes?

Baked ziti stands out because of its layered structure, combining al dente pasta with hearty sauce and creamy cheeses.

Unlike lasagna, it doesn’t require precise layering of flat noodles, making it simpler but equally satisfying.

The addition of lemon zest in this recipe adds a bright, unique twist that other pasta dishes often lack.

Why Do You Put an Egg in Baked Ziti?

The egg helps bind the ricotta mixture, ensuring it stays creamy and cohesive during baking. Without the egg, the ricotta could separate, leading to a less uniform texture. This step ensures each bite has the perfect balance of creaminess and stability.

How Do You Prevent Baked Ziti Recipes From Drying Out?

Keeping baked ziti moist comes down to using enough sauce.

Each piece of pasta should be well-coated before layering.

Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking locks in moisture and prevents the cheese from drying out.

Adding fresh mozzarella and baking uncovered for the last 10–15 minutes ensures a golden, bubbly top without sacrificing the dish’s juicy texture.

Why Is My Baked Ziti Watery?

Watery baked ziti usually happens when:

1. Pasta is overcooked and releases excess water during baking.
2. The sauce is too thin or watery to begin with.
3. The dish wasn’t allowed to rest after baking, which helps the layers set and absorb excess moisture.

To avoid this, cook the pasta just until al dente, use a thick marinara sauce, and let the ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Can You Substitute Ricotta Cheese in Baked Ziti?

Absolutely. If ricotta isn’t your thing or isn’t available, try these substitutes:

• Cottage Cheese: Slightly less creamy but works well with similar texture.
• Mascarpone: Adds richness and a buttery flavor.
• Béchamel Sauce: A white sauce that adds creaminess without the tang of ricotta.

Each option changes the flavor profile slightly, so choose based on your preference.

Nutritional Insights

Each serving of baked ziti packs about 580 calories, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s rich in protein from the meat and cheese, while the pasta and sauce provide energy-boosting carbs.

FAQ’s On Baked Ziti

If baked ziti is your idea of comfort food, you’ll love exploring more hearty dishes. Try our richly spiced authentic birria tacos recipe or the creamy, savory marry me chicken. Both bring bold flavors and satisfying warmth to your table.

For a lighter but still cozy option, consider our asparagus tomato pasta recipe.

If you’re looking for more recipes like this, plus tips to make your cooking even better, check out the Simply Delicious Newsletter. It’s packed with ideas, inspiration, and exclusive recipes to keep your table exciting and your skills sharp.

This recipe was created by Ryan Yates, a seasoned chef with over 20 years of experience in commercial kitchens. As a working executive chef, Ryan is passionate about sharing easy-to-follow, elevated recipes that anyone can master at home. Thanks for joining us in the kitchen—happy cooking!