Go Back
A bubbling, cheesy Baked Ziti is shown as a tempting featured image for the recipe.

Easy Baked Ziti

This baked ziti recipe features layers of perfectly cooked ziti pasta, a rich meat sauce, and a creamy, cheesy topping baked to golden perfection. It's an easy-to-make, comforting, and satisfying meal that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Spoon
  • Medium bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Aluminum foil
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  3. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package directions, but slightly undercook it – about 1-2 minutes less than the recommended time.
  4. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
  5. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  6. Add the ground beef (or Italian sausage) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  7. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  8. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
  9. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and water.
  10. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  11. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley.
  12. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
  13. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta and about half of the meat sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
  14. Spread a thin layer of the remaining meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  15. Pour half of the pasta mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly.
  16. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta.
  17. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
  18. Repeat layers with the remaining pasta mixture, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
  19. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
  20. Bake for 20 minutes.
  21. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  22. Let the baked ziti rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Don't overcook the pasta. Use good quality ingredients. Customize the recipe with vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. For variations, try Vegetarian Baked Ziti, Spicy Baked Ziti, White Sauce Baked Ziti, or Seafood Baked Ziti. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.