Baked Ziti with Cheese

Introduction

Baked Ziti with Cheese is one of those timeless comfort foods that never fails to impress. It’s a hearty, cheesy, and utterly satisfying pasta bake that originates from Italian-American cuisine. Traditionally made with ziti pasta, tomato sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, it’s baked until bubbly, golden, and irresistible.

The magic of this dish lies in its layers—pasta tossed in a savory tomato sauce, creamy ricotta for richness, gooey mozzarella that stretches with every bite, and a Parmesan topping that adds a nutty, slightly salty finish. It’s like lasagna’s less fussy cousin: easier to prepare, just as comforting, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

This dish shines not only as a weeknight dinner but also as a star at potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday meals. Its warm, cheesy goodness brings people together and guarantees happy, full bellies.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Baked Ziti with Cheese because it combines everything I adore about Italian comfort food—pasta, cheese, and a flavorful tomato sauce—into one easy-to-make dish. Unlike lasagna, it doesn’t require hours of layering, yet you still get that same cheesy, baked perfection.

It’s also a versatile dish that you can prepare ahead of time, making it ideal for busy days or when you’re hosting guests. The leftovers taste just as delicious the next day, and it’s freezer-friendly, which is a huge bonus. Most of all, it’s a dish that makes the whole house smell amazing while it bakes—warm, cheesy, and inviting.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it’s the definition of comfort food at its best. The combination of pasta, melted cheese, and tangy tomato sauce is universally loved. It’s a budget-friendly recipe that feeds a family, yet feels indulgent and restaurant-worthy.

If you’re new to Italian-American cuisine, baked ziti is a fantastic place to start—it’s simple, delicious, and foolproof. Plus, it’s a dish that’s easily adaptable to personal tastes. Whether you like it vegetarian, meaty, extra cheesy, or with a spicy kick, there’s a baked ziti variation for everyone.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6 servings
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Calories: ~480–520 calories per serving (depending on cheese and sauce used)

Ingredients

For the Pasta & Sauce

• 1 lb (450 g) ziti pasta (or penne as a substitute)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Mixture

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
• 1 large egg (optional, for binding)

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add ziti pasta and cook until just al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions).
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion until soft and translucent.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, ¼ cup Parmesan, and egg (if using).
2. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Baked Ziti

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce at the bottom.
3. Add half the cooked ziti pasta.
4. Spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture over the pasta.
5. Pour half the sauce on top and spread evenly.
6. Repeat with the remaining pasta, ricotta mixture, and sauce.
7. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted and golden brown.
3. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

Serve baked ziti hot, straight from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color. Pair it with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot makes it even more enjoyable.

Recipe Tips

1. Cook pasta just shy of al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when baked.
2. Use freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan for the best melting and flavor.
3. If your sauce tastes too acidic, add a pinch of sugar or a splash of cream.
4. Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking so it sets nicely before serving.

Variations

• Meaty Baked Ziti: Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to the tomato sauce.
• Vegetarian Baked Ziti: Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers.
• Spicy Baked Ziti: Use spicy Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Three-Cheese Ziti: Use a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan for extra cheesiness.
• White Baked Ziti: Replace tomato sauce with Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
• Freezing (Unbaked): Assemble the dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 15–20 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing (Baked): Cool completely, wrap in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C).

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for pasta)
• Large skillet or saucepan (for sauce)
• Mixing bowls
• 9x13-inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil

Conclusion

The Baked Ziti with Cheese is a classic Italian-American comfort dish that’s cheesy, hearty, and soul-warming. It’s easy to make, customizable to your taste, and perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping. With its gooey cheese, flavorful sauce, and baked golden crust, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.