Sunday Baked Ziti

Name: Sunday Baked Ziti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 24 oz marinara sauce; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Modern Food

I love making Sunday Baked Ziti as a comforting family meal that brings everyone together. It’s a dish that combines gooey cheese, tasty sauce, and pasta in a way that always satisfies my cravings. Each ingredient plays a vital role, creating layers of flavor that come alive in the oven. As we gather around the table to enjoy it, the aroma fills the room, making it hard to resist. This recipe not only warms the heart but is also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weekends.

Created by

Una Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:45:35.431Z

I remember the first time I made this Sunday Baked Ziti. It was a chilly afternoon, and I wanted something warm and comforting. As I layered the ricotta, mozzarella, and hearty marinara, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it all came together. It was a hit with my family!

What really makes this dish shine is letting it bake a bit longer. I’ve found that allowing it to sit for an extra 10 minutes gives the flavors a chance to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich, savory delight that everyone loves. Serve it with some garlic bread for a full Italian experience!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying pasta dish that brings comfort to the soul
Layers of cheese that create a bubbly, golden crust
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or meats

      

The Role of Cheese in Baked Ziti

Cheese is the star of any baked ziti recipe, creating that gooey, comforting texture we crave. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan not only provides a rich, creamy mouthfeel but also contributes a variety of flavors. Ricotta adds a wonderfully smooth aspect, while mozzarella melts beautifully to create those coveted stretchy cheese strands. Grated Parmesan on top gives a savory, nutty finish, balancing the entire dish.

When layering the cheese, consider mixing some mozzarella into the ricotta mixture for added creaminess. I always ensure there’s enough cheese in each layer, as that bubbly golden crust is what makes baked ziti truly indulgent. Keep an eye on the baking time—once the cheese starts to bubble and turn golden, that’s your cue to pull it from the oven.

Customize Your Baked Ziti

One of the joys of making baked ziti is its versatility. You can easily tailor this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms between the layers. Not only do these additions enhance the flavor, but they also boost nutrition. If you prefer a meatier dish, ground beef or Italian sausage can be browned and mixed with the marinara sauce for a hearty twist.

For those seeking a lighter option, whole grain or gluten-free ziti can be used without compromising the texture. If you’re watching your calories, consider using part-skim ricotta and mozzarella. These options allow everyone to enjoy a satisfying meal while accommodating different dietary needs.

Making Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing baked ziti ahead of time is a fantastic way to save on busy weeknights. You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance, just be sure to cover it tightly with aluminum foil before refrigerating. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if starting from the fridge. A little patience will yield delicious, bubbling results.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes, or in the microwave in smaller portions. For longer storage, freeze the assembled ziti before baking for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, defrost in the fridge overnight and follow the baking instructions as usual.

Ingredients

For the Baked Ziti

12 oz ziti pasta
24 oz marinara sauce
15 oz ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Baked Ziti

In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, then half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

Bake

Top with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with the grated Parmesan cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and cheesy Sunday Baked Ziti!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing some garlic and onions before adding the marinara sauce. You can also mix in sautéed vegetables or ground meat for extra heartiness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your baked ziti comes out too dry, it may need more sauce. Always ensure that each layer of pasta is well-coated to retain moisture. If using a leaner sauce, consider adding a splash of water or broth before baking to keep everything from drying out. Conversely, if it’s too watery, allow it to bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to help the excess liquid evaporate.

Another common issue is the cheese not browning properly. This can happen if the dish is covered too long or if the oven temperature is too low. For a perfectly golden crust, remove the foil during the last part of baking and ensure the oven is preheated fully to 375°F (190°C).

Serving Suggestions

There’s something delightful about complementing baked ziti with a crisp side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette will brighten up the meal. Additionally, you can serve it alongside garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks to soak up the delicious sauce left on your plate.

For a cozy family dinner, pair the baked ziti with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot. This enhances the tomato sauce’s flavor and adds a sophisticated touch to the meal. Don't forget to sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top before serving to add a pop of color and fresh aroma.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While ziti is traditional, you can use penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you like.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the baked ziti a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

→ Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly! You can easily add some cooked ground meat if desired.