Comfort Food Baked Ziti

Name: Comfort Food Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage; 28 ounces marinara sauce; 15 ounces ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Food Favorites

I absolutely love making Comfort Food Baked Ziti during cozy nights in. This dish is not only incredibly comforting, but it also brings everyone together around the dining table. The combination of gooey melted cheese, hearty pasta, and a rich tomato sauce creates a symphony of flavors that warms the soul. Plus, I enjoy how easy it is to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. You can even customize it with your favorite vegetables or meats for a personal touch!

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:45:37.671Z

Making this Comfort Food Baked Ziti recipe has been a delightful journey for me over the years. I remember the first time I tried it; the layers of cheese and pasta blended perfectly together, creating a meal that felt like a warm hug. I learned that cooking the pasta just al dente is key, as it continues to cook in the oven and absorb all the beautiful flavors from the sauce.

What I appreciate most about this dish is its versatility; you can easily add a variety of veggies or meats to cater to different tastes. I often use a mix of mozzarella and ricotta for that creamy texture which just elevates the whole dish. Trust me, you’ll want to make this over and over!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty, cheesy goodness that satisfies cravings
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients
Great for leftovers and meal prep

Key Techniques for Perfect Baked Ziti

One vital technique for achieving the perfect baked ziti is to ensure your pasta is cooked just until al dente. This means it should still have a slight firmness when bitten. By boiling the ziti for only 7-8 minutes, you prevent it from becoming mushy during the second baking phase. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so a slight undercook will provide the best texture.

When preparing the sauce, take the time to accurately brown the meat. This deepens the flavor of the dish through the Maillard reaction, which adds complexity to the overall taste. Once the meat is browned, don’t rush to add the marinara sauce. Let the onions and garlic sweat first, allowing their flavors to meld beautifully before introducing the meat.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

The choice of sausage or beef dramatically affects the flavor profile of your baked ziti. Italian sausage adds an extra layer of spice and richness, while ground beef provides a heartier taste. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey can be substituted for either and will yield a lighter version without compromising flavor. Be mindful to cook it thoroughly to maintain safety and achieve the desired flavor.

For a creamier texture, consider blending the ricotta cheese with a splash of milk or an egg before mixing with pasta. This creates a more cohesive filling that can help to keep everything moist during baking. Additionally, if you're looking to sneak in some veggies, finely chopped spinach or zucchini can be added to the meat sauce, enhancing both nutrition and flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this comforting baked ziti:

Ingredients

1 pound ziti pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
28 ounces marinara sauce
15 ounces ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious baked ziti:

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Add the ground beef or sausage, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat and stir in marinara sauce. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined. Add the meat sauce and stir until evenly coated.

Assemble the Ziti

Spread half of the ziti mixture in a greased baking dish. Top with half of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Layer the rest of the ziti on top, finishing with the remaining cheese.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Enjoy this comfort food classic with a side salad!

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Comfort Food Baked Ziti is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meals. After assembling the ziti in your baking dish, you can cover it tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If you plan to store it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to wrap the dish in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. You can bake it from frozen by increasing the cooking time by about 20-30 minutes.

Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. For reheating, I suggest using the oven instead of the microwave, as it ensures the pasta remains crispy on top while the cheese melts. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes to achieve the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Comfort Food Baked Ziti, serve it alongside a fresh green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette. The crisp, acidic salad complements the rich and cheesy ziti beautifully. A selection of crusty garlic bread on the side also makes for a hearty accompaniment, perfect for dipping into the leftover sauce.

For a fun twist, you can also consider adding different toppings or garnishes before serving. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick, while a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of parsley can enhance the visual appeal and flavor just before serving. Picking fresh basil from your garden or local market adds freshness that elevates the dish further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Just bake it when you're ready to eat.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese in place of ricotta for a slightly different texture.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! Just cover it tightly and freeze before baking. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.

→ How do I know when baked ziti is done?

It's done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned on top.