Craving the ultimate comfort food? These 10 mouthwatering baked ziti recipes will transform your dinner table into an Italian-American feast.
From classic cheese-laden versions to creative vegetable-packed variations, you’ll find the perfect recipe to satisfy your pasta cravings.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week ahead, these tried-and-tested recipes offer foolproof methods and expert tips to achieve the perfect balance of tender pasta, rich sauce, and gooey cheese every time.
Get ready to discover your new go-to baked ziti recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Classic Four-Cheese Baked Ziti
Transform your dinner table with this irresistibly creamy and cheesy baked ziti that combines four distinctive Italian cheeses.
This comfort food classic creates the perfect balance of rich sauce, al dente pasta, and a golden-brown crusty top that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup fontina cheese, shredded
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Step 2: Cook ziti according to package directions until al dente.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine ricotta, half the mozzarella, parmesan, fontina, eggs, garlic, and herbs.
Step 4: Mix the cooked pasta with marinara sauce in a separate bowl.
Step 5: Layer half the pasta in the baking dish, spread the cheese mixture, then add remaining pasta.
Step 6: Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
Step 7: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Step 8: Remove foil and bake for additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
Pro Tip: Let your baked ziti rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set properly. For the best texture, cook your pasta 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Garden Vegetable Ricotta Baked Ziti
Garden Vegetable Ricotta Baked Ziti is a comforting Italian-inspired pasta dish that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with fresh garden vegetables and perfectly cooked ziti pasta.
This vegetarian-friendly dish makes for an excellent family dinner or potluck contribution.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 yellow squash, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and cook ziti according to package directions until al dente.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
Step 3: Add zucchini, squash, and bell pepper. Cook until tender-crisp.
Step 4: In a large bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, eggs, and Italian seasoning.
Step 5: Combine cooked pasta, vegetable mixture, spinach, and marinara sauce.
Step 6: Fold in the cheese mixture gently.
Step 7: Transfer to a 9×13 baking dish, top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 8: Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Pro Tip: To prevent your ziti from becoming mushy, cook it 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions since it will continue cooking in the oven. Always let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set properly.
Creamy Butternut Squash Baked Ziti
Transform your regular pasta night into a cozy, comforting experience with this vegetarian-friendly Creamy Butternut Squash Baked Ziti.
This dish combines the subtle sweetness of butternut squash with rich cheese and herbs, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will warm your soul.
Ingredients:
• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25 minutes until tender.
Step 3: Cook ziti according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 4: Blend roasted squash with milk until smooth.
Step 5: Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
Step 6: Mix pasta, squash puree, sautéed vegetables, and half the cheese.
Step 7: Transfer to a baking dish, top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs.
Step 8: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Pro Tip: For the creamiest results, don’t skip roasting the butternut squash – it develops a deeper flavor than boiling or steaming. You can also prepare the squash puree a day ahead to save time during assembly.
Spinach and Mushroom White Sauce Ziti
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy Spinach and Mushroom White Sauce Ziti.
This vegetarian comfort dish combines al dente ziti pasta with earthy mushrooms and nutrient-rich spinach, all enveloped in a velvety béchamel sauce that’s sure to impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 6 cups fresh spinach
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Cook ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté mushrooms until golden brown, then add garlic and onions.
Step 3: Add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove vegetables from pan and set aside.
Step 4: In the same pan, melt butter. Add flour and whisk for 2 minutes to make a roux.
Step 5: Gradually add milk and cream, whisking constantly until sauce thickens.
Step 6: Stir in Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Step 7: Combine pasta, vegetables, and sauce. Mix well and serve hot.
Pro Tip: For the perfect white sauce consistency, warm your milk before adding it to the roux – this prevents lumps from forming. Also, don’t overcook the pasta as it will continue to soften slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
Roasted Eggplant and Mozzarella Ziti
Transform your regular pasta night into something extraordinary with this comforting Roasted Eggplant and Mozzarella Ziti.
This vegetarian-friendly dish combines the smoky sweetness of roasted eggplant with creamy mozzarella and perfectly cooked ziti pasta, all brought together in a vibrant tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups marinara sauce
• 16 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Toss eggplant cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
Step 2: Roast eggplant for 25-30 minutes until golden brown, stirring halfway through.
Step 3: Meanwhile, cook ziti according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 4: In a large baking dish, combine cooked pasta, roasted eggplant, marinara sauce, and herbs.
Step 5: Mix in half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Top with remaining cheese and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, don’t overcook your pasta – keep it slightly firm as it will continue cooking in the oven. You can also prepare the eggplant a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator to save time during assembly.
Buffalo Chicken Baked Ziti
Buffalo Chicken Baked Ziti combines the spicy kick of classic buffalo wings with the comforting goodness of baked pasta.
This crowd-pleasing casserole brings together tender chicken, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked ziti pasta, all tossed in a zesty buffalo sauce that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Step 2: Cook ziti according to package directions until al dente.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing until smooth.
Step 4: Add shredded chicken, half the mozzarella, garlic, and salt and pepper to the sauce mixture.
Step 5: Fold in the cooked pasta until well combined.
Step 6: Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
Step 7: Top with remaining mozzarella and blue cheese crumbles.
Step 8: Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Step 9: Garnish with green onions before serving.
Pro Tip: To achieve the perfect balance of heat and creaminess, adjust the ratio of buffalo sauce to ranch dressing based on your preference. For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble this dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Mediterranean Artichoke Baked Ziti
Mediterranean Artichoke Baked Ziti is a delightful fusion of Italian pasta and Mediterranean flavors that brings comfort and sophistication to your dinner table.
This vegetarian-friendly dish combines the heartiness of ziti pasta with marinated artichokes, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 (14 oz) cans artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Step 2: Cook ziti according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix ricotta, half the mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add artichokes and spinach.
Step 5: Combine pasta, cheese mixture, and artichoke mixture in the baking dish.
Step 6: Pour marinara sauce over the mixture and top with remaining mozzarella.
Step 7: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for additional 10 minutes until golden.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, don’t overcook your pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven. Also, let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set properly and make serving easier.
Three-Cheese Garlic Bread Ziti
Get ready to combine two Italian favorites into one incredible dish!
This Three-Cheese Garlic Bread Ziti transforms ordinary pasta into a spectacular comfort food masterpiece by incorporating the flavors of cheesy garlic bread right into the pasta bake.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and cook ziti according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 2: Mix softened butter with half the minced garlic and Italian seasoning.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce, ricotta, remaining garlic, and half of each cheese.
Step 4: Drain pasta and mix with the sauce mixture.
Step 5: Transfer to a 9×13 baking dish and top with remaining cheeses.
Step 6: Dot the top with garlic butter mixture.
Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 8: Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Pro Tip: To achieve the perfect garlic bread crust, switch your oven to broil for the final 2 minutes of baking, but watch carefully to prevent burning. Always let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set properly.
Roasted Red Pepper and Basil Ziti
Transform your everyday pasta dinner into a vibrant and flavorful experience with this Roasted Red Pepper and Basil Ziti.
This comforting dish combines sweet roasted peppers, fresh basil, and creamy sauce to create a memorable meal that’s perfect for both family dinners and entertaining guests.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 3 large red bell peppers
• 4 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups fresh mozzarella, cubed
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Halve and seed the peppers, brush with olive oil, and roast for 25-30 minutes until skin blisters.
Step 2: Cook ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Peel and puree roasted peppers in a food processor until smooth.
Step 4: In a large saucepan, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
Step 5: Add marinara sauce, pureed peppers, and cream. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 6: Combine sauce with pasta, half the mozzarella, and most of the basil.
Step 7: Transfer to a baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
Pro Tip: To achieve the perfect sauce consistency, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. You can add this starchy water to thin out the sauce if needed. Also, don’t skimp on fresh basil – it’s essential for achieving the signature flavor of this dish.
Ultimate Veggie Supreme Baked Ziti
Get ready to create a mouth-watering pasta dish that combines the heartiness of ziti with a medley of fresh vegetables and rich cheese.
This crowd-pleasing vegetarian baked ziti transforms ordinary pasta into a supreme comfort food masterpiece that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella
• 1 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 yellow squash, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and cook ziti according to package directions until al dente.
Step 2: Sauté garlic in olive oil over medium heat, then add all vegetables except spinach. Cook until tender.
Step 3: Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, vegetables, marinara sauce, and ricotta cheese.
Step 5: Transfer to a 9×13 baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 6: Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncovered for 10 minutes until cheese is golden brown.
Pro Tip: To prevent your pasta from becoming mushy, cook it 1-2 minutes less than package instructions as it will continue to cook in the oven. For the best cheese pull effect, let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a baked ziti recipe truly outstanding?
The best baked ziti combines al dente pasta, rich tomato sauce, and multiple cheese layers. Perfect baked ziti features a golden-brown top with gooey cheese underneath and well-seasoned sauce throughout.
How can you prevent your baked ziti from becoming dry?
Cover your baked ziti with foil for most of the baking time and add extra sauce to compensate for absorption. Remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes to achieve the perfect cheese crust.
What cheese combination works best for baked ziti?
Use a mixture of whole milk mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese for optimal flavor and texture. The mozzarella provides stretch, ricotta adds creaminess, and Parmesan brings a sharp, savory note.
How long should you cook baked ziti for the best results?
Bake your ziti at 375°F for 45-50 minutes total. This timing allows the cheese to melt properly and the flavors to meld while maintaining the pasta’s texture.
What’s the secret to getting perfect layers in baked ziti?
Start with sauce, add partially cooked pasta, layer cheese mixture, and repeat. Reserve some mozzarella for the top layer and ensure even distribution of ingredients throughout.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a cozy family dinner, these baked ziti recipes offer something for everyone.
Remember to cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to soften in the oven.
Don’t rush the layering process – it’s key to achieving that perfect blend of flavors.
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and fresh herbs to make these recipes your own.
With proper storage, your leftover baked ziti will taste delicious for up to four days in the refrigerator.
Now you’re ready to create your perfect baked ziti masterpiece!
