Quick Comfort Food Baked Ziti

Name: Quick Comfort Food Baked Ziti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Traditional Comforts

I love whipping up Quick Comfort Food Baked Ziti when I need a hearty dish that feeds a crowd without fuss. It combines gooey cheese, flavorful marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all topped with a crispy golden layer. This recipe simplifies the traditional baked ziti method, allowing me to enjoy a delicious meal in only 30 minutes! It’s a go-to for busy weeknights, or when I’m gathering friends for a cozy dinner. Let’s dive into how this comforting dish comes together effortlessly.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-10T20:45:35.611Z

When I first tried making baked ziti, I was skeptical about how such a simple dish could pack so much flavor. The key to my quick version is using good-quality store-bought marinara sauce and fresh mozzarella. It not only saves time but ensures that every bite bursts with flavor.

One tip I learned is to mix a portion of the mozzarella with the pasta before baking; this creates a cheesy core that melts beautifully throughout. Trust me, your guests will be going for seconds!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Comforting flavors that everyone enjoys

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the heartwarming flavors of baked ziti. The ziti pasta is essential for its tubular shape, which captures the cheese and sauce beautifully. This pasta should be cooked al dente, as it will continue to soften during baking. Opt for high-quality marinara sauce to ensure a rich, savory base; homemade is fantastic but store-bought can save time without sacrificing flavor.

Ricotta cheese adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the dish. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider replacing ricotta with cottage cheese blended until smooth. The mozzarella cheese melts wonderfully to create that perfect gooey texture, while Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish. Using a blend of fresh and shredded cheese can elevate the dish, so don’t hesitate to mix it up!

Techniques for Perfect Baked Ziti

When mixing the ingredients, ensure the pasta is still warm. This trick helps the cheeses melt easier and creates a smoother consistency. Make sure to coat every piece of pasta with the marinara and ricotta mix. For a richer flavor, you might consider sautéing garlic or onions and adding them to the sauce mixture for that extra depth.

Layering is an important technique in this recipe. When assembling, try to evenly distribute both the pasta mixture and the cheese. This will ensure that every serving has a delightful balance of flavors. When you remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking, keep a close eye on the cheese. You want a beautifully golden color without overcooking.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients you need for a perfect baked ziti.

Ingredients

12 oz ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to create your baked ziti.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well coated.

Assemble the Ziti

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

Bake Until Bubbling

Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil, add the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbling.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious baked ziti!

Let it cool slightly before serving for the best flavor.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables or cooked ground meat to the pasta mixture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This baked ziti adapts perfectly for meal prep. You can assemble the entire dish ahead of time, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time if you're starting from the fridge; it may take an additional 10 minutes to heat through thoroughly.

If you find yourself with leftovers, baked ziti refrigerates well for about three to four days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. You can also freeze it; wrap individual servings in plastic wrap and then foil to keep them fresh for up to three months. When reheating, cover it with foil to retain moisture and heat it at 350°F until warmed through.

Creative Variations

Feel free to customize your baked ziti by adding vegetables or proteins. Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be stirred into the pasta mixture for added nutrition. For meat lovers, ground beef or Italian sausage can be browned and mixed in, just remember to drain any excess fat for a less greasy outcome.

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider swapping out the marinara for Alfredo sauce or a mixture of both. You could also try adding a splash of red wine to the marinara to deepen its flavor profile. To make it spicy, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or use a spicy sausage in place of the standard variety.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the baked ziti in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

→ What kind of pasta can I use instead of ziti?

You can substitute ziti with penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta shape that holds sauce well.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

→ What can I serve alongside baked ziti?

A simple side salad or garlic bread complements baked ziti perfectly, providing a fresh balance to the richness of the dish.