Quick Comfort Food Baked Ziti

Name: Quick Comfort Food Baked Ziti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making baked ziti for a cozy meal that always hits the spot. This dish combines tender pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and plenty of gooey cheese, creating a comforting experience that's perfect for any night of the week. It's simple to prepare and can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients, whether that's sausage, veggies, or extra seasonings. I often make a larger batch for leftovers, as it reheats beautifully and is just as delicious days later.

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:25:35.853Z

When I first tried to make baked ziti, I couldn't believe how easy it was to prepare. The combination of al dente pasta and melty cheese truly creates a dish that feels much more complicated. I quickly learned that using ricotta cheese adds an extra creaminess that makes all the difference. Plus, the leftovers are even better the next day!

One essential tip I discovered is to let the baked ziti rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it much easier to serve. I also love swapping out the traditional marinara for a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a flavorful twist!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich cheesy goodness with every bite
Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping
Versatile: customize with your favorite ingredients

Mastering the Layers

When layering your baked ziti, give special attention to how you distribute the ingredients. A great technique is to evenly spread the marinara sauce across the bottom of the baking dish to prevent the pasta from sticking. In addition, ensure that each layer of ziti is covered by some cheese mixture and marinara for the best flavor absorption. This not only enhances the taste but also ensures that the dish maintains moisture throughout baking.

As you build your layers, consider incorporating vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Sauté these ingredients lightly before adding them to the cheese mixture, as this helps enhance their flavor and ensures they cook properly while the ziti bakes. This customization keeps the dish interesting and can cater to various dietary preferences.

Cheese Choices and Techniques

The blend of cheeses in this baked ziti plays a significant role in achieving that signature gooey texture. Ricotta lends creaminess and contributes to a rich filling, while mozzarella provides that satisfying stretch in each bite. For an additional flavor kick, you might experiment with provolone or fontina in place of some of the mozzarella, adjusting the ratios to maintain a creamy consistency without compromising the cheesiest outcome.

For the best melting cheese experience, ensure your mozzarella is at room temperature before layering. Cold cheese doesn’t melt as well, which could result in uneven texture. Also, consider shredding your own cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded, which often has anti-caking agents that can impact melt quality.

Ingredients

Baked Ziti Ingredients

12 oz ziti pasta
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a creamy filling.

Combine and Layer

In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, then half of the cheese mixture, followed by another layer of marinara. Repeat the process, ending with a final layer of sauce and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the ziti for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve warm.

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes or substituting some of the marinara with a spicy arrabbiata sauce. Enjoy customizing it with seasonal vegetables like spinach or mushrooms!

Storing and Reheating

Baked ziti stores well, making it an ideal meal to prepare in advance or enjoy as leftovers. To store, allow the dish to cool completely before covering it with foil or transferring it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Moreover, it can be frozen if you want to extend its shelf life; just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

When ready to reheat, the best method is to bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. To achieve a bubbly, golden top, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes. If you’re reheating individual portions in the microwave, be sure to cover them to maintain moisture and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

Variations and Additions

This baked ziti is highly versatile; feel free to experiment with different proteins or vegetables based on your preferences. Italian sausage is a classic choice that adds a hearty depth of flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian version, roasted zucchini and bell peppers can add a delightful texture and sweetness. You can even opt for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative that still packs a punch.

To amp up the flavor profile, consider adding spices like red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or substituting part of the marinara with a made-at-home pesto. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant color to the overall dish, making it visually appealing as well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes if it's coming straight from the fridge.

→ What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

Mascarpone or cottage cheese can be good substitutes if you prefer a different texture and flavor.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! After baking, cool it completely and then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

→ What are some good add-ins?

You can try adding cooked ground beef, sausage, sautéed vegetables, or even pepperoni for an extra layer of flavor!