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baked-ziti-feature

Baked Ziti – Easy, Cheesy, Family-Friendly Pasta Bake

This classic Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food—loaded with tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and layers of gooey melted cheese. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or enjoying as a cozy family dinner. No wine needed—just bold, familiar flavors everyone loves!

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ziti pasta
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 1½ cups whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Boil pasta until just under al dente; drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté garlic in olive oil, then stir in marinara and Italian seasoning; simmer.
  3. Mix ricotta with egg, half the Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
  4. Assemble in a baking dish: pasta + sauce + ricotta + mozzarella in layers.
  5. Bake at 375°F (190°C) covered for 20 minutes, then uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  6. Let rest 5–10 minutes, garnish with herbs, and serve.
  • Author: [email protected]
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Italian-American