There’s something so satisfying about diving into a plate of baked ziti, with its layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey, melted cheese. This recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers the next day.

I first made this dish for a family potluck, and it quickly became the star of the table. The combination of creamy ricotta, tangy marinara, and bubbly mozzarella makes it irresistible. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this is the baked ziti recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti

This Best Baked Ziti Ever checks all the boxes for an unforgettable meal. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Hearty and Filling: Packed with pasta, cheese, and a robust meat sauce, it’s a satisfying dish that’s guaranteed to leave everyone full and happy.
Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, baked ziti is incredibly simple to assemble, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready—ideal for busy schedules or entertaining.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist the cheesy, saucy goodness of this classic dish.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s called “the best” baked ziti. Let’s look at what makes it so special.

Ingredients Notes

The key to an amazing baked ziti is using high-quality, flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ziti Pasta: The foundation of the dish. Ziti is perfect for holding the sauce and cheese, but you can also use penne or rigatoni in a pinch.
Ground Meat: A mix of ground beef and Italian sausage gives the meat sauce a rich, savory flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey or a vegetarian alternative if you prefer.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred marinara for convenience, or make your own for extra flavor. Opt for a brand with no added sugar for a more authentic taste.
Ricotta Cheese: The creamy heart of baked ziti. Full-fat ricotta provides the best texture and flavor, but part-skim works too if you’re watching calories.
Mozzarella Cheese: The key to that melty, cheesy top layer. Shred your own mozzarella for the best melt and texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the ricotta mixture and on top of the dish.
Garlic and Onion: These aromatics add depth to the meat sauce, enhancing its savory profile.
Egg: Mixing an egg into the ricotta ensures the cheese layer stays creamy and holds its shape.
Seasonings: A blend of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper ties the flavors together.

You’ll also need a large baking dish and a pot for boiling the pasta.

How To Make The Best Baked Ziti Ever

Creating this delicious baked ziti is easier than you think. Here’s the step-by-step process:

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, Italian sausage, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the marinara sauce and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to deepen the flavors.
Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and one egg. Stir until smooth and set aside.
Assemble the Ziti: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked pasta, followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella, and more meat sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella on top.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Let Rest: Allow the baked ziti to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.

Storage Options

Baked ziti is perfect for leftovers and meal prep. Here’s how to store it:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Freezer: Assemble the baked ziti but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the entire dish a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready. This makes it perfect for hosting or busy evenings.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly customizable to suit your preferences:

Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the marinara sauce.
Cheese Swap: Try blending ricotta with mascarpone for an extra creamy texture, or use provolone instead of mozzarella for a smoky flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or use spicy Italian sausage for a bit of heat.
Low-Carb: Substitute the pasta with cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles for a lighter version.

No matter how you customize it, this baked ziti is sure to be a hit!

Serving Suggestions

Baked ziti is a meal in itself, but these side dishes make it even better:

Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up every bit of sauce.
Caesar Salad: A crisp, tangy salad balances the richness of the ziti.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy touch.

This Best Baked Ziti Ever recipe is everything you want in a comfort food: cheesy, saucy, and bursting with flavor. Whether it’s for a big family dinner or a potluck, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and prepare to make your best baked ziti yet!