All-Star Baked Ziti

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The Ultimate Cheesy, Bubbly Comfort Food Everyone Will Love

If there were ever a dish that could unite a dinner table and ignite a sense of joy, it’s baked ziti. This Italian-American comfort food classic is pure cozy satisfaction in a casserole dish. Think bubbling cheese, layers of sauce, pasta cooked to perfection, and flavors so bold that one bite feels like a warm hug.

In this article, you’ll discover how to make the ultimate all-star baked ziti—a dish that’s simple to prepare yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping meals ahead, or need a dish to take to a potluck, this baked ziti is a crowd-pleaser through and through.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti

  • It’s ultra cheesy. Three kinds of cheese—mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan—melt into a creamy, gooey masterpiece.

  • It’s prep-friendly. Make it ahead of time, pop it in the oven when ready, or freeze it for later.

  • It’s easily customizable. Add meat, veggies, or herbs based on what you have.

  • It feeds a crowd. Ideal for big family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week.

Short Intro

Ultra-cheesy, comforting baked ziti layered with marinara and three cheeses for the perfect family dinner.

Ingredients (With US Measuring Cups)

To get started, here are the full ingredients you’ll need, measured using standard US cups and spoons:

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (16 oz) ziti pasta
    You can substitute with penne or rigatoni if ziti is unavailable.

Sauce and Aromatics:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups marinara sauce
    Choose a high-quality jarred marinara or make your own. Look for sauces with minimal sugar and fresh herbs.

Cheese Layer:

  • 1 ½ cups whole-milk ricotta cheese

  • 2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 large egg
    Helps bind the ricotta mixture together.

Seasoning:

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make All-Star Baked Ziti: Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these stages to make sure your ziti comes out cheesy, rich, and perfectly baked every time.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

  • Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until just al dente (firm to the bite).

  • Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Tip: Do not overcook the pasta—it will continue cooking in the oven.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

  • In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

  • Add diced onion and cook until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.

  • Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:

  • Add 1 ½ cups of ricotta cheese.

  • Crack in 1 large egg.

  • Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon oregano.

  • Season with salt and pepper.

  • Mix until the texture is smooth and creamy.

Optional: Add a handful of chopped basil or parsley to enhance freshness.

Step 5: Layer the Baked Ziti

Now comes the fun part—assembling the casserole:

  1. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

  2. Add half of the cooked pasta.

  3. Dollop and spread half the ricotta mixture over the pasta.

  4. Sprinkle half of the sautéed onion and garlic over the ricotta.

  5. Add 1 cup mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese.

  6. Pour half of the remaining sauce over the top.

Repeat all layers with remaining pasta, ricotta mixture, onions, mozzarella, Parmesan, and the last of the marinara.

  1. Finish with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan on top for a golden crust.

Step 6: Bake the Ziti

  • Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.

  • Bake for 20 minutes, covered.

  • Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

  • Let rest for 5 minutes before serving so the cheese settles slightly.

Prep Time and Nutrition

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 35 minutes

  • Total Time: 55 minutes

  • Servings: 6–8 generous portions

  • Calories per Serving: Approximately 450 kcal

Note: Calories may vary depending on the type of sauce and cheese used.

Tips for the Best Baked Ziti

1. Use Al Dente Pasta

Overcooked pasta becomes mushy once baked. Undercook it by 1–2 minutes for best results.

2. Choose High-Quality Cheese

Freshly shredded mozzarella and Parmesan offer better melting and flavor than pre-shredded varieties.

3. Customize It

  • Add meat: Brown ½ pound ground beef or Italian sausage and layer it with the sauce.

  • Add veggies: Sauté mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers and layer them in.

  • Add heat: Red pepper flakes or hot Italian sausage add a kick.

4. Make It Ahead

Assemble the dish up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

5. Freeze It

Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F for about 1 hour, or thaw overnight and bake normally.

What to Serve With Baked Ziti

To make your meal complete, pair this rich casserole with:

  • Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks

  • A fresh Caesar salad or mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette

  • Roasted broccoli or green beans

  • Red wine like Chianti, Merlot, or a sparkling Italian soda for non-alcoholic options

Storing Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: Cool completely, then wrap portions in foil and place in freezer bags.

  • To reheat: Microwave individual portions or bake covered at 350°F until warmed through.

Make It for a Crowd

Baked ziti is perfect for parties, potlucks, and family dinners. Double the recipe and use two 9×13 pans if needed. It’s always a hit and rarely leaves leftovers behind.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so satisfying about pulling a bubbling tray of baked ziti from the oven. The layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese melt together into an irresistible dish that’s both nostalgic and deeply flavorful.

It’s not fancy or fussy—just real, honest comfort food done right. So next time you’re craving something hearty and homemade, skip the takeout and bake this All-Star Baked Ziti instead.

Trust us: your kitchen will smell amazing, your taste buds will thank you, and your family will ask for seconds.

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