Comfort Food Baked Ziti

Name: Comfort Food Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Favorite Comfort Food Inspiration

I have always been a fan of hearty meals that warm the soul, and baked ziti is one of my all-time favorites. The combination of pasta, marinara, and creamy cheese creates a delightful comfort food that brings back cherished memories. Whenever I prepare this dish, I love how the kitchen fills with enticing aromas that make everyone excited for dinner. It's perfect for cozy family nights or casual gatherings with friends, and the best part is that it can be made ahead of time, so you have more time to enjoy the company!

Created by

Honoria Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-06T18:09:36.349Z

Every time I make baked ziti, I’m reminded of the cozy family dinners from my childhood. I love how everyone gathers around the table, eagerly waiting to dig in. The layers of pasta mixed with mozzarella cheese and rich marinara sauce are not just delicious but also create a dish that resonates with warmth and satisfaction.

After experimenting with different cheeses and spices, I've found that a touch of ricotta adds an extra creaminess that elevates the dish. I also recommend letting it rest for a few minutes after baking, which helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes serving easier. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty pasta dish that's perfect for any gathering
Creamy, cheesy layers that please everyone's palate
Easy to prepare ahead of time for busy weeknights

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Selecting quality ingredients is crucial for the success of your baked ziti. Opt for a high-quality marinara sauce, as it forms the flavor base for the entire dish. If time allows, consider making your own sauce from scratch with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for a richer taste. When it comes to cheese, I recommend using whole milk ricotta, which provides a creamier texture compared to part-skim. For mozzarella, using fresh mozzarella will yield a delightful stretchiness that enhances each bite.

It's important to pay attention to the pasta you choose. Ziti is traditionally used for its tubular shape, which holds the sauce and cheese very well. Nevertheless, feel free to substitute with penne or rigatoni if that's what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check the package instructions for al dente results.

Assembling Your Baked Ziti

When layering the ziti, the order can significantly affect how the flavors meld. Starting with a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom prevents the noodles from sticking and ensures they remain saucy as they bake. Spread the cheese mixture evenly, so every forkful contains that rich, creamy goodness. I find it helpful to use a spatula to distribute the cheese uniformly over the pasta without disturbing the noodles too much.

After you’ve assembled the layers, it’s essential to cover the baking dish with foil during the initial baking phase. This retains moisture and allows the cheese to melt beautifully. Remove the foil towards the end to achieve that tantalizing golden-brown crust. Keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes; you want it bubby and slightly crisp without burning.

Serving and Storing Leftovers

Baked ziti is best served fresh from the oven but can be kept covered at room temperature for up to two hours before serving. When serving, let it rest for a few minutes; this helps the layers set and makes for cleaner portions. Pair baked ziti with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal, and don’t forget to sprinkle more Parmesan on top for extra flavor.

For make-ahead convenience, baked ziti can be assembled and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it after assembling. Just wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, bake straight from the freezer for about 50-60 minutes, or until heated through. Just ensure to check the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Comfort Food Baked Ziti

For the baked ziti

12 oz ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
15 oz ricotta cheese
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, egg, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.

Assemble the Ziti

In a large baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by the cheese mixture, and then another layer of marinara sauce. Top with the remaining ziti and the rest of the marinara sauce. Finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve

Let the baked ziti sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy it hot and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can mix in cooked ground beef or Italian sausage with the pasta. Don’t have ricotta on hand? Cream cheese can be a great substitute!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this dish a bit healthier, you can substitute whole grain ziti for regular pasta, which adds fiber without compromising texture. For a lighter cheese option, consider using part-skim ricotta and mozzarella. Additionally, if you're short on time, pre-shredded cheeses can be a fantastic option that saves you the hassle of grating—just watch for added anti-caking agents that can affect meltability.

For a vegetarian twist, load your baked ziti with sautéed vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Not only do they add nutrients, but they also bring a fresh flavor profile. Just be sure to cook them slightly before adding them to the layered dish to prevent excess moisture from watering down your sauce.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Always monitor the baking time closely, as over-baking can lead to a dry texture. One common issue is having an overly watery baked ziti. To avoid this, ensure that your sauce is thickened adequately and don’t skip draining the pasta completely. If you find the edges browning too quickly, you can cover them with foil to slow down the cooking while the center continues to bake.

If you’ve ever pulled out your baked ziti only to find cheese that isn’t melting properly, it might be due to using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents. For the best texture, grate your cheese fresh from the block. And remember, if your ziti doesn’t have the bubbly top you were hoping for, just broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a watchful eye to prevent burning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the ziti a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you are ready to bake it.

→ What can I serve with baked ziti?

Baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! You can freeze baked ziti before or after baking. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped and store for up to 3 months.

→ Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! You can easily make it vegetarian by using a meatless marinara sauce and adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.