Name: Best Baked Ziti Ever Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ziti pasta; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups marinara sauce; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 egg; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Warm, cheesy, and packed with comforting Italian flavors, baked ziti is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. This recipe takes a classic dish to new heights with layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese. Every bite feels like a cozy hug, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

I first perfected this recipe for a family gathering, and it was an instant hit. Since then, it has become my go-to dish for potlucks and dinner parties. Trust me—this baked ziti will earn you rave reviews every single time.

Why You'll Love This Baked Ziti

If you’re looking for a foolproof, crowd-pleasing dish, this baked ziti is the answer. Here’s why it stands out:

Easy to Make: With simple steps and pantry staples, this recipe is beginner-friendly while still tasting like a labor of love.
Cheese Heaven: Three types of cheese—ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan—create a creamy, melty masterpiece.
Perfect for Crowds: This recipe feeds a crowd and can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready, making it perfect for busy schedules.

Once you try it, you’ll see why this baked ziti deserves a spot in your recipe rotation!

Ingredients Notes

This dish relies on simple, high-quality ingredients to create layers of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ziti Pasta: The star of the show! Penne or rigatoni work as substitutes if ziti isn’t available.
Ground Beef and Italian Sausage: This duo creates a rich, savory base for the sauce. You can use all beef or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought marinara or homemade sauce for a personalized touch.
Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess and balances the acidity of the tomato sauce. Cottage cheese works as a substitute.
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is ideal for that gooey, stretchy melt. Shredded mozzarella also works well.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor to the dish. Grate it fresh for the best results.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics lay the flavor foundation for the meat sauce.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme enhances the dish's classic Italian flavors.

How To Make The Best Baked Ziti Ever

Making baked ziti is easier than you think! Here’s how to achieve cheesy, saucy perfection:

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until just shy of al dente. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Return the meat to the skillet and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the Ziti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the ingredients as follows:

Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
Add half the cooked ziti, followed by half the ricotta mixture, half the mozzarella, and half the remaining sauce.
Repeat the layers, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

5. Bake and Serve

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Storage Options

This baked ziti is perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to store it:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Freezer: To freeze, assemble the ziti in a freezer-safe dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Variations and Substitutions

This baked ziti is endlessly adaptable to suit your preferences:

Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and load the sauce with sautéed veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach.
Extra Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage for a kick of heat.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free.
Cheese Swap: Try substituting ricotta with cream cheese or using a blend of mozzarella and provolone for extra flavor.
Single-Serve Portions: Assemble the ziti in individual ramekins for a fun, personalized touch.

This Best Baked Ziti Ever Recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. With its creamy layers of cheese and hearty meat sauce, it’s the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love. Serve it for dinner tonight, and don’t forget the garlic bread on the side!