Sunday Baked Ziti

Name: Sunday Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces ziti pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage; 28 ounces marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love preparing Sunday Baked Ziti because it brings everyone together for a cozy family meal. The layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese create a comforting dish that warms the soul. It’s a recipe I've perfected over the years, allowing me to experiment with ingredients like fresh herbs and different cheeses to elevate the flavors. I often make a big batch to enjoy leftovers throughout the week. This dish not only satisfies but also creates lasting memories around the dinner table.

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:04:19.618Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of baking ziti, I was skeptical. I figured it was just another pasta dish. However, after trying it out one Sunday afternoon, I realized how wrong I was. The golden, bubbly cheese on top and the aromatic blend of marinara and herbs made every bite a delight. I’ve learned that using a mix of cheeses really enhances the creaminess, and I often sneak in some veggies for a nutritious boost.

One particular Sunday, I decided to incorporate some roasted vegetables alongside the pasta. The sweetness of the roasted bell peppers and the slight earthiness of spinach added great dimension to the dish. I believe this is what makes my Baked Ziti stand out; it’s not just filling, but it also bursts with flavor and texture that everyone loves!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty layers of pasta and cheese that satisfy any craving
Rich and flavorful marinara sauce that enhances each bite
Versatile recipe that adapts to ingredient preferences

      

The Importance of Layering

Layering is a crucial technique in creating an extraordinary baked ziti. Each layer contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the dish. Start with a base of meat sauce to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the baking dish. Additionally, layering the ricotta and mozzarella cheese evenly ensures that every bite is cheesy and satisfying. Aim for at least three layers, alternating between the pasta and the sauces, to develop a hearty center that oozes flavor when served.

It's also essential to ensure that you distribute the ingredients evenly throughout the layers. Uneven layering can lead to dry pockets of pasta or sections that lack flavor. To achieve this, use a spatula to spread the ricotta and meat sauce evenly over the pasta before adding more layers. This robust method helps to keep the dish moist and ensures that each forkful delivers a burst of rich flavors.

Choosing Your Proteins and Cheeses

While traditional baked ziti uses ground beef or Italian sausage, you can easily customize this dish by mixing different proteins. Ground turkey or chicken presents a leaner alternative, while a combination of meats can add complexity. For a vegetarian option, substitute with sautéed mushrooms or lentils, which provide a hearty texture. Just remember to season these substitutes well, as they will be the primary source of flavor in your dish.

When it comes to cheese, variety is key. I recommend combining mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a creamier texture. Each cheese melts differently, adding unique flavors and mouthfeel. If you're looking to reduce calories or adapt for dietary needs, consider using part-skim ricotta and low-fat mozzarella. Dairy-free alternatives, such as cashew-based cheeses, can also be delicious in this recipe—just ensure they have similar moisture levels to achieve the best consistency.

Make-Ahead and Leftovers

Making baked ziti ahead of time is a fantastic way to save on prep for busy days. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld while giving the pasta a chance to absorb the sauce, resulting in an even tastier dish. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

For leftover baked ziti, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot throughout, about 20-25 minutes. If the pasta appears dry, sprinkle a little water on top before reheating to maintain that comforting gooeyness. You might even find that the flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, making it a perfect meal for meal prepping.

Ingredients

For the Baked Ziti

12 ounces ziti pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
28 ounces marinara sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups ricotta cheese
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Ziti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened. Add the ground beef or sausage, cooking until browned.

Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and simmer for 10 minutes.

Assemble the Ziti

In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese. In a baking dish, layer a portion of the meat sauce, followed by half the ziti mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining meat sauce and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the baked ziti sit for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy a hearty meal with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the sauce. Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated easily, making this a convenient dish for meal prep.

Gluten-Free Options

If you're maintaining a gluten-free diet, substituting regular ziti pasta with gluten-free pasta is an excellent option. There are numerous brands available that mimic the texture of traditional pasta quite closely. When cooking gluten-free pasta, keep a close eye on the cooking time, as it tends to cook faster and can become mushy if overcooked. Aim for al dente with a slight bite to retain some firmness as it bakes in the oven.

Be mindful of cross-contamination if you are preparing this dish for someone with celiac disease. Ensure all utensils and cooking surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and use separate equipment for gluten-free ingredients. This way, you can enjoy a comforting dish without compromise.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your baked ziti alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will balance the richness of the cheese and meat, creating a well-rounded dining experience. A loaf of crusty garlic bread is also a delightful companion, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Should you have a gathering or potluck planned, consider pairing the baked ziti with a light appetizer, such as bruschetta or stuffed mushrooms. This will not only complement your main dish but also elevate the entire meal into something memorable, filled with various flavors and textures.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the ziti in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving, adjusting the cooking time if needed.

→ What can I substitute for meat?

You can replace the meat with roasted vegetables, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat substitute to make it vegetarian.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! Freeze it before baking, and when you're ready, simply let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

→ What type of cheese works best?

A combination of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan works well for a rich flavor, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!