Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing dish, the cheesy baked ziti recipe is your perfect go-to. This comforting classic combines tender pasta, savory meat sauce, rich ricotta, and gooey melted cheese into one bubbling masterpiece. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a dinner party, baked ziti is a guaranteed hit—and it’s surprisingly easy to make!

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the best cheesy baked ziti at home. From ingredient tips and prep instructions to pro tricks and nutritional insights, you’ll find all the information you need to master this iconic Italian-American dish.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Ziti

• Delicious Layers: Each bite delivers creamy ricotta, tangy tomato sauce, savory beef, and golden, stretchy cheese.

• Easy to Make: No complicated steps—just layer and bake.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it the night before or freeze it for future meals.

• Perfect for Leftovers: It tastes even better the next day!

• Family-Friendly: Picky eaters will love it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to make this cheesy masterpiece:

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound ziti pasta (or penne)

• Salted water for boiling

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Layer:

• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese

• 1 egg (optional, for stability)

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Cheesy Baked Ziti

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Cook the ziti in salted boiling water until just shy of al dente (about 1 minute less than package directions). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, sauté onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add ground beef and brown until fully cooked. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors develop.

Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, half of the Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.

Step 4: Assemble the Baked Ziti

In a large baking dish:

• Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.

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• Add half the pasta, then spoon half the ricotta mixture over it.

• Add half the meat sauce, sprinkle with mozzarella.

• Repeat the layers and top with the remaining Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Let it Rest

Allow it to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut and serve.

Tips for the Best Baked Ziti

• Undercook the pasta slightly so it doesn’t get mushy when baked.

• Use fresh mozzarella for ultimate meltiness.

• Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

• Substitute Italian sausage for extra flavor.

• Want it vegetarian? Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approx.)

• Calories: 450–550

• Protein: 25g

• Carbs: 35g

• Fat: 25g

Note: These values can vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat

Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat: Oven at 350°F until warm through, or microwave individual servings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze baked ziti?
   Absolutely. It freezes well before or after baking. Wrap it tightly and label it with the date.

3. Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
   Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Blend cottage cheese for a smoother consistency.

4. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
   Yes. Just omit the meat and add sautéed veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

5. Can I use different types of pasta?
   Sure! Penne, rigatoni, or rotini all work great in place of ziti.

6. What’s the best cheese for baked ziti?
   Mozzarella for melting, ricotta for creaminess, and Parmesan for sharpness make the perfect trio.

7. How long should I bake it?
   About 30–35 minutes total: 20 covered, then 10–15 uncovered.

8. Why is my baked ziti watery?
   Overcooked pasta or too much sauce can cause this. Undercook pasta slightly and go easy on the sauce.

9. Can I use store-bought pasta sauce?
   Yes, but add herbs, garlic, and onions to boost flavor.

10. Is this dish spicy?
    Not by default. Add crushed red pepper flakes if you like heat.

Conclusion

The cheesy baked ziti recipe is a timeless comfort food classic—easy to make, deeply satisfying, and sure to impress your family or guests. With bubbling cheese, rich meat sauce, and tender pasta in every bite, it’s no wonder this dish has become a weeknight favorite in so many homes.

So, grab your apron and get ready to enjoy one of the most beloved baked pasta recipes out there. Serve it with a fresh green salad and some crusty garlic bread, and you’ve got a meal worth savoring!