Cheesy Baked Ziti

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Cheesy Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food that wraps you up in a warm, hearty hug with every bite. This classic baked pasta dish is packed with layers of saucy goodness, gooey cheese, and tender ziti noodles that hold onto flavor like a dream. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this dish brings people together around the table with no-fuss ingredients and loads of flavor.

With just a handful of pantry staples and some time in the oven, you can create a bubbling, golden-topped meal that’s satisfying on every level. Cheesy Baked Ziti is one of those recipes that’s loved for its simplicity and its ability to taste like a hug in a bowl. It’s customizable, freezer-friendly, and best of all, it’s the kind of dinner that often earns a round of seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Ziti

It’s cheesy, cozy, and so easy to make ahead of time. You can prep the whole thing in advance and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake. The blend of melted mozzarella, creamy ricotta, and savory marinara layered between ziti noodles makes every forkful crave-worthy. Plus, it’s a dish that adapts to whatever you have in your fridge—add ground beef, sausage, or even roasted veggies to make it your own.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

While this dish is traditionally made with ziti, you can also use penne or rigatoni if that’s what you have on hand. The key is to use a tubular pasta that holds sauce inside and doesn’t get mushy during baking. Ziti is smooth and straight, which helps it layer beautifully, while penne or rigatoni might offer more texture due to their ridges.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Baked Ziti

To make this Cheesy Baked Ziti as delicious as possible, you’ll want quality ingredients that melt well and deliver flavor in every bite. Here’s what you need:

Ziti pasta: The base of the recipe, this tube-shaped pasta holds sauce perfectly.

Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and a mild, slightly sweet flavor to the layers.

Mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, stretchy cheesy top and melty interior.

Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty depth that balances the other cheeses.

Marinara sauce: A rich tomato sauce that binds everything together—homemade or your favorite jarred brand.

Egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture and gives the filling some structure.

Garlic powder and Italian seasoning: For seasoning the ricotta and boosting flavor throughout.

Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing the taste of every layer.

How To Make the Cheesy Baked Ziti

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Ricotta Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Layer the Ziti

Spread a spoonful of marinara sauce on the bottom of a greased baking dish. Layer half of the cooked ziti on top, followed by half the ricotta mixture, a generous layer of marinara, and a handful of mozzarella. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, ricotta, sauce, and top with more mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 375°F oven for about 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serving and Storing Your Cheesy Baked Ziti

Cheesy Baked Ziti is hearty enough to be served on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread. This recipe serves about 6 to 8 people, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. It also holds up great as leftovers—just reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist.

To store, let it cool completely before covering tightly with foil or placing in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, and you can freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Cheesy Baked Ziti?

Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.

Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine and tangy dressing balance the richness of the ziti.

Roasted Broccoli

A simple veggie side that adds nutrition and texture.

Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella bring brightness to the table.

Sauteed Spinach

Quick to make and ideal for sneaking in some greens.

Antipasto Platter

Set out a small board of olives, roasted red peppers, and cured meats for an Italian-inspired meal.

Tomato Basil Soup

Especially comforting on a chilly evening, this combo makes a cozy dinner.

Bruschetta

Crunchy toasts topped with tomatoes and herbs are great for nibbling before or with your pasta.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you’re a pasta lover, you’ll want to check out these deliciously satisfying meals:

• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli Recipe for an elegant twist.
• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni if you’re craving bold flavors.
• Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup for a cozy soup-pasta hybrid.
• Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine with a rich, buttery bite.
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta if you’re in the mood for something spicy.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how you made it your own. Did you add sausage? Swap in penne? Go heavy on the cheese?

I love seeing all the creative spins you give these classic dishes. And if you have questions while cooking, I’ve got your back.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and comfort food favorites on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find new dinner inspiration every day.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Ziti is a weeknight hero and a weekend favorite all in one. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to take it slow, enjoy every bite, and maybe even sneak back for thirds. Whether you’re feeding a group or stashing it in the freezer for busy nights ahead, this pasta bake delivers on flavor and comfort every single time.

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