Baked Ziti with Mozzarella

Baked Ziti with Mozzarella is a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. This classic Italian-American recipe features ziti pasta baked in a rich tomato sauce, layered with creamy ricotta and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. The result is a hearty meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

The dish starts with cooked ziti mixed with a flavorful marinara sauce. The addition of ricotta cheese adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the pasta. Once layered in a baking dish, it’s topped generously with mozzarella and a sprinkle of herbs, often basil or oregano, for that fresh touch.

When baked, the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden crust, while the pasta absorbs the flavors of the sauce. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.

To make this dish, you’ll need ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and some herbs. Cook the pasta until al dente, mix it with the sauce and ricotta, and layer it in a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and bake until bubbly. It’s that simple!

This Baked Ziti is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for leftovers, it can be enjoyed the next day, making it a great option for meal prep. Serve it with a side salad and some garlic bread for a complete dinner.

Why It’s a Go-To for Home Cooks

What makes baked ziti so enduring is its simplicity. It’s a dish that feels special but doesn’t require complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. You can make it ahead, freeze it, or bake it fresh—and it always turns out beautifully. The layering process is forgiving, and the ingredients are pantry staples: pasta, marinara, cheese, and maybe a little sausage or ground beef if you’re feeling indulgent. It’s also a great way to use up leftover sauce or cheese, making it as practical as it is delicious.

Customizable, Freezer-Friendly, and Always a Hit

Baked ziti is endlessly adaptable. Want to make it vegetarian? Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Prefer a little heat? Stir in crushed red pepper or spicy Italian sausage. You can even swap the ricotta for cottage cheese or add a splash of cream for extra richness. And because it freezes beautifully, it’s a lifesaver for busy weeks—just assemble, freeze, and bake when needed. It’s the kind of dish that works hard for you, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or prepping for a week of easy meals.

 

Easy Baked Ziti with Mozzarella

Recipe

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ziti pasta

  • 3 cups marinara sauce

  • 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 large egg

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

  2. Cook ziti in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.

  4. In a large bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper.

  5. Add cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and toss to coat.

  6. Spoon half the sauce into the baking dish. Add half the pasta mixture. Repeat layers.

  7. Top with remaining sauce and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.

  8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for 10 more minutes until bubbly and golden.

  9. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 579 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 41 g

  • Protein: 23.5 g

  • Fat: 17.6 g

  • Saturated Fat: 8.2 g

  • Cholesterol: 59 mg

  • Sodium: 824 mg

  • Fiber: 2.4 g

  • Sugar: 5.9 g