Comfort Food Baked Ziti

Name: Comfort Food Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 24 oz marinara sauce; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Planning

I absolutely love making Comfort Food Baked Ziti for gatherings or cozy nights in. This dish combines perfectly cooked pasta, hearty marinara sauce, and a blend of melted cheeses, creating a dish that warms both the heart and the soul. It’s easy to prepare and the leftovers are just as delightful. The best part is how it brings family and friends together around the table, making every bite a moment to savor. I can’t wait to share this delicious recipe with you!

Created by

Francesca Holt

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:49:36.362Z

When I first tried Baked Ziti, I was instantly hooked by the comforting flavors and textures. The combination of the pasta, rich marinara, and creamy cheese results in a mouthwatering dish that feels like a warm hug. I remember experimenting with various cheese blends and found that a mix of mozzarella and ricotta gives the perfect creamy consistency.

Over the years, I’ve added my own twist to the traditional recipe by incorporating sautéed vegetables and Italian spices. This not only enhances the flavors but also makes the dish more wholesome. Baking it until golden brown takes it to the next level. I always look forward to the inviting aroma that fills the kitchen!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty layers packed with flavor and texture
Melt-in-your-mouth cheese that keeps you coming back for more
Perfect for meal prep – the flavors get even better overnight

Texture and Flavor Balance

Creating the perfect baked ziti is all about achieving a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. The al dente ziti behaves like tiny vessels, soaking up the rich marinara sauce while still retaining a satisfying bite. The creamy ricotta adds a luxurious texture that contrasts beautifully with the stretchy mozzarella and the salty richness of Parmesan. When baked, the cheese develops those appealing golden edges, providing a delightful crunch that enhances each bite.

To elevate the flavors, don’t skimp on the seasoning. Italian seasoning plays a crucial role, infusing the dish with herbal notes that complement the tomato's acidity. Personalize it: try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or some chopped olives for a briny punch. These small tweaks can really make your baked ziti stand out.

Make-Ahead and Leftover Tips

One of the best features of baked ziti is its meal prep potential. After assembling the ziti, you can cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time on cooking day but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a chilled dish.

Leftovers? No problem! Baked ziti stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover and pop the entire dish back into a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. Adding a splash of marinara sauce before reheating keeps it moist and delicious, ensuring every bite tastes freshly made.

Ingredients

For the Baked Ziti

12 oz ziti pasta
24 oz marinara sauce
15 oz ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Sauce

In a large bowl, mix together the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce mixture and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.

Layer the Dish

In a greased baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the cheese.

Bake

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

Serve

Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil and serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also customize this dish by adding cooked ground beef or sausage for extra protein.

Troubleshooting Your Baked Ziti

Issues like watery baked ziti can arise from excess moisture in the ricotta or marinara. To mitigate this, consider draining the ricotta in a cheesecloth before incorporating it into the sauce. This step ensures a creamier texture without making your dish soggy. Also, avoid using overly watery canned tomatoes in your marinara, as this can lead to a compromised final texture.

If you find your cheese isn't melting properly, it might be due to the moisture content in your cheese blend. Opt for whole milk mozzarella for a better melt or mix in some low-moisture mozzarella to achieve that gooey stretch without excess water. A quick broil at the end can also help if you crave a charred top.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize your baked ziti based on dietary needs or preferences. For a lighter version, swap half of the pasta with spiralized vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant. They will blend seamlessly with the other ingredients while cutting down on carbs. Additionally, using whole wheat ziti can elevate the nutritional profile while maintaining a pleasing texture.

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using dairy alternatives for ricotta and mozzarella. Brands like Tofutti or Kite Hill offer ricotta substitutes that provide a similar creaminess. Nutritional yeast can add cheesy notes to your sauce. For an extra protein boost, consider adding cooked ground turkey or a mix of sautéed vegetables to the ziti mixture before baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute ziti with penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the assembled dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, baked ziti freezes well. Just ensure it is covered tightly and use it within 3 months.

→ How do I reheat baked ziti?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.