Sunday Baked Ziti

Name: Sunday Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Baked Meals

I absolutely adore making Sunday Baked Ziti for my family gatherings. It’s the perfect blend of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese that brings everyone together around the table. The best part is that it's so easy to prepare! I love how I can layer the ingredients and pop it in the oven, letting the aroma fill my home while I catch up with my loved ones. This dish is truly a family favorite, and it never fails to impress guests with its hearty flavors.

Created by

Odette Fairbanks

Last updated on 2026-01-12T05:01:34.736Z

When I first tried making Baked Ziti, I was amazed at how simple it was to create something so delicious. I experimented with different cheeses and spices until I found the perfect combination. It's satisfying to serve a dish that not only looks impressive but tastes incredible too!

What I’ve learned is that letting the baked ziti rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven makes a significant difference. This allows the cheese to set a bit, making it easier to cut and serve nice, hearty slices without everything falling apart!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Cheesy goodness that stretches with every bite
Filling and comforting, perfect for family meals
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins

The Importance of Layering

Layering is a crucial step in creating the perfect baked ziti. Each layer should be evenly distributed to ensure that every bite is a harmonious blend of flavors. Start with a base of meat sauce to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the dish. This not only enhances the texture but also allows the pasta to absorb the rich flavors of the sauce as it bakes.

I recommend using a large enough baking dish—around 9x13 inches is ideal—to accommodate all the layers without overflowing. As you layer, remember to keep the proportions in balance: alternating between ziti, the ricotta mixture, and sauce. This ensures that each serving has a delightful mix of creamy, cheesy, and meaty goodness.

Customizing Your Baked Ziti

One of the best features of baked ziti is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your family’s tastes. Consider adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the ricotta mixture for added nutrition and flavor. Simply sauté these vegetables briefly before mixing them in; this gives them a better texture and prevents excess moisture from making the dish watery.

If you prefer a spicy kick, try incorporating crushed red pepper flakes into the meat sauce or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef. For a meatless alternative, substitute the meat with lentils or plant-based sausage; this still delivers a hearty feel while accommodating vegetarian diets.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Baked ziti is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare it up to a day in advance, layering the ingredients in the baking dish and then covering tightly with plastic wrap. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, just remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’ll go in cold from the fridge.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also freeze portions in individual containers; they’ll keep for up to three months. Just remember to let them defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients for Baked Ziti

12 oz ziti pasta
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
15 oz ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start assembling the dish!

Instructions

Prepare your workspace and preheat the oven to make the cooking process fast and efficient.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Meat

In a skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce. Simmer for a few minutes.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Combine and Layer

In a large baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Your delicious baked ziti is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, consider adding spinach or zucchini to the meat sauce for extra veggies. You can also substitute whole grain pasta for a healthier option.

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in baked ziti plays a vital role in the overall flavor and texture. For instance, the ricotta cheese adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity of the marinara sauce. Adding an egg to this mixture not only helps bind it but also gives it a light, fluffy texture. Make sure to use whole-milk ricotta for the best flavor; it's richer and creamier compared to low-fat alternatives.

Using high-quality marinara sauce is also crucial. A homemade version or a jarred sauce made with San Marzano tomatoes will provide a fresher taste. If you’re short on time, opt for a marinara that boasts minimal ingredients—no added sugars or preservatives. This ensures that the natural flavors shine through and play well with the cheesy layers.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with baked ziti is a dry texture. This typically happens if the pasta is overcooked before layering. Make sure to cook the ziti only until al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking. If you find your dish still comes out dry, try adding a splash of water or extra marinara sauce before reheating.

Another potential problem is uneven melting cheese on top. To achieve that beautifully bubbly and golden crust, avoid directly covering the cheese with foil during the initial bake. Instead, cover the dish while it cooks to ensure the pasta gets enough steam, then remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

Baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad. The crispness of the greens complements the hearty richness of the ziti perfectly. Consider a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a comforting meal, serve it alongside garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for some extra indulgence.

For a fun twist on serving, you could turn baked ziti into meal prep-friendly options. Portion the baked ziti into single-serving containers, and you have quick lunches or light dinners ready to go throughout the week. Just remember to garnish with fresh herbs or extra cheese right before serving to elevate the presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the ziti ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the ziti a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just increase the baking time by 10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Mashed cottage cheese or cream cheese can be substituted for ricotta in this recipe.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just ensure it's well-covered to prevent freezer burn.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.