The Best Baked Ziti Recipe
If you love lasagna but want something easier, this baked ziti recipe is the perfect solution. Tender pasta is tossed with a rich meat sauce, layered with creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheese, then baked until golden and bubbly.
This easy baked ziti recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, potlucks, and feeding a crowd.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Easier than lasagna
Family-friendly dinner
Freezer-friendly
Great leftovers
Loaded with cheese
Perfect comfort food
Ingredients
Pasta
1 pound ziti pasta
Meat Sauce
1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
1 small onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
32 ounces marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Cheese Mixture
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 egg
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley
How To Make Baked Ziti
Step 1
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Grease a 9x13 baking dish.
Step 2
Cook ziti pasta until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Step 3
Brown ground beef / turkey and onion.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 4
Add:
Marinara sauce
Italian seasoning
Salt
Pepper
Simmer 10 minutes.
Step 5
Mix together:
Ricotta
Egg
Parmesan
Step 6
Combine pasta with half the meat sauce.
Step 7
Layer:
Pasta
Ricotta mixture
Remaining sauce
Mozzarella cheese
Step 8
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Step 9
Rest 10 minutes before serving.
What Is The Difference Between Baked Ziti And Lasagna?
Baked ziti uses pasta mixed together in layers, while lasagna uses flat noodles layered individually. Baked ziti is faster and easier to assemble but still delivers the same cheesy Italian comfort food flavor.
Can You Make Baked Ziti Ahead Of Time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What To Serve With Baked Ziti
Garlic Bread
Caesar Salad
Roasted Broccoli
Italian Salad
Green Beans