There's nothing like a bubbling, cheesy tray of baked ziti fresh from the oven to bring comfort to the table. The tangy marinara, gooey cheese, and perfectly al dente pasta create a harmony of flavors that feels like a warm hug.

I discovered this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something hearty but easy to whip up. It’s now a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or when hosting guests. Let’s dive into what makes this baked ziti the best ever!

Why You’ll Love This Best Baked Ziti Ever

Prepare to meet your new go-to pasta dish. This baked ziti is packed with flavor, easy to customize, and always a crowd-pleaser.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly simple to make. Even if you’re not a kitchen pro, this recipe breaks down into straightforward steps that anyone can follow.

Family-friendly? Absolutely. Kids love the cheesy goodness, while adults appreciate the hearty, satisfying layers of flavor.

It’s also perfect for meal prep. Make it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Leftovers? They taste even better the next day, making this dish as practical as it is delicious.

Lastly, this recipe is a budget-friendly crowd-pleaser. With just a handful of affordable ingredients, you can feed a group without breaking the bank.

Ready to start cooking? Let’s talk about the ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of baked ziti lies in its simplicity, but every ingredient plays a key role in its flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ziti pasta: The foundation of the dish! Its tubular shape is perfect for catching the sauce and melted cheese. If you don’t have ziti, penne or rigatoni work well too.

Marinara sauce: A high-quality store-bought marinara will save time, but feel free to use homemade for an extra touch. Look for one with a robust, herby flavor.

Ground beef or Italian sausage: For a meaty base, go with your preference. I love the depth that Italian sausage adds, but ground beef works wonderfully if you prefer a milder taste.

Ricotta cheese: This is the creamy layer that makes baked ziti irresistible. Full-fat ricotta creates the best texture, but low-fat works in a pinch.

Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses: Mozzarella provides that gooey melt, while Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor. Use freshly grated Parmesan if possible—it’s worth it.

Garlic and onion: These aromatics build the foundation of flavor, enhancing every bite of the dish.

Special equipment: A deep 9x13-inch baking dish is essential for layering all the components without spilling over.

How to Make This Best Baked Ziti Ever

Creating the best baked ziti ever is easier than you think! Follow these steps for perfect results every time.

Cook the pasta: Start by boiling your ziti in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside. Remember, the pasta will finish cooking in the oven, so don’t overcook it now.
Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Stir in the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat, then mix in the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors.
Mix the ricotta layer: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, an egg, a pinch of salt, and a handful of grated Parmesan. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the layers: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Add half the cooked pasta, then dollop half the ricotta mixture over the pasta. Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella and more Parmesan. Repeat the layers, finishing with a thick layer of mozzarella on top.
Bake to perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Pro tip: Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.

Storage Options

Baked ziti is the gift that keeps on giving! Here’s how to store it for maximum freshness:

Refrigerate: Cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Baked ziti freezes beautifully. Wrap the entire dish in plastic wrap and foil, or portion it into smaller containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: For refrigerated ziti, reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This baked ziti is endlessly customizable! Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach to the marinara sauce.
Spicy twist: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra heat.
Gluten-free: Substitute regular ziti with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Cheese lovers' delight: Add a layer of creamy béchamel sauce for an ultra-rich baked ziti.
Low-carb option: Swap the ziti for roasted spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.

Experiment, and don’t be afraid to get creative. This dish is as versatile as it is delicious!

Serve your Best Baked Ziti Ever with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a meal that’s pure comfort on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply indulging in leftovers, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. 🧡