Baked Ziti the Ultimate Comfort Food Casserole

How to Make Baked Ziti My Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

By Chef BakerJune 28, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Ever have one of those days where only proper comfort food will do? Fancy trying how to make baked ziti ? Honestly, this recipe is like a warm hug in a dish, the ultimate ziti casserole baked .

The rich, meaty sauce combined with layers of cheesy goodness is an absolute dream.

Baked Ziti Bliss

This dish has Italian American roots. It's hearty and perfect for sharing. Think of it as lasagna's chill cousin. Ready in just over an hour, it's easier to make than you think.

This recipe serves 6-8 people. Ideal for a family dinner or potluck!

Why You'll Love This Easy Baked Ziti Recipe With Ricotta

One of the best things about this homemade baked ziti is that it's packed with protein and cheesy goodness. It makes it perfect for easy 2 person meals or a larger gathering.

This classic baked ziti recipe is special because it's so versatile. You can easily customize it to your liking. For example, I love to add Italian sausage to my bake ziti with Italian sausage version!

Okay, so before we dive into the method, let's have a look at the ingredients you'll need to nail this dish.

Right, let's talk about what you'll need to whip up this belter of a baked ziti recipe . Honestly, it's easier than you think!

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Sorted!

Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show

Here's what you need, measured like a pro.

Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . Good quality olive oil makes a difference.
Ground Beef: 1 pound (450g) . Or, go for Italian sausage. Makes it proper lush.
Onion: 1 medium , chopped. About 1 cup .
Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Don't be shy with it.
Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon . Adds that Italian flavour.
Dried Basil: 1/2 teaspoon . Essential, innit?
Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional). For a bit of a kick.
Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce/794g) can . The base of our sauce.
Tomato Sauce: 1 (15 ounce/425g) can . More tomato goodness.
Dry Red Wine: 1/2 cup (120ml) (optional). Adds richness, like a proper chef!
Granulated Sugar: 1 teaspoon . Balances the acidity.
Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces (425g) . Whole milk or part skim, your call.
Egg: 1 large , lightly beaten.
Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup , grated. The proper stuff, yeah?
Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup , chopped. Adds freshness, like a garden.
Ziti Pasta: 1 pound (450g) . The star of the show!.
Mozzarella Cheese: 3 cups (340g) , shredded. Divided, for layering.

Seasoning Notes: Flavour Bombs

Get these right, and your homemade baked ziti will be banging!

Essential Spice Combo : Oregano + Basil + Garlic. It's the holy trinity of Italian flavour.
Flavour Enhancers : Red wine (if using) and a pinch of sugar. Trust me.
Quick Swap : No fresh parsley? Dried parsley works in a pinch (about 1 teaspoon).

Honestly, this is how to make baked ziti sing.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

Don't need fancy kit for this classic baked ziti recipe .

Large Pot: For cooking the pasta. Obvs.
Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: For the sauce.
9x13 inch Baking Dish: The star of the show.
Mixing Bowls: For the cheese mixture.

Right, that's the kit sorted! Let's get cooking! The perfect Ziti Casserole Baked is within reach!. Did you know that baked ziti is one of the most searched easy to make recipes? Also, it's great for Easy 2 Person Meals !

Cooking Method

Right, let's talk about how to make baked ziti , the ultimate comfort food. Honestly, it's like a warm hug on a plate.

My nan used to make this every Sunday, and oh my gosh, it was heaven. It's proper easy once you get the hang of it, so don't fret.

Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission

Before you even think about turning on the hob, get your stuff sorted. It's all about that essential mise en place .

Chop your onion, mince that garlic, and get your cheeses ready. It'll save you a load of time. For time saving organization tips, measure out all your spices beforehand.

It's like having your own little cooking show. Safety first! Don't run with scissors, and always keep a damp cloth handy for spills.

step-by-step: Ziti Time!

Right, here’s the deal, classic baked ziti recipe time:

First, brown your beef in a pan. Drain off that extra fat.
Chuck in your onion and garlic. Cook until softened.
Add your herbs, tomatoes, tomato sauce, wine (if using) and sugar. Simmer for at least 15 minutes . This will make you bake ziti with italian sausage and bake ziti with meat sauce with a depth of flavour.
Cook your ziti until al dente. We don't want it soggy.
Mix your ricotta, egg, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Mix the pasta and sauce together. Layer half in a dish, then ricotta mix, then mozzarella, then the rest of the pasta. Top with more mozzarella.
Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 25- 30 minutes . You want it golden and bubbly.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Trust me on this one.

Pro Tips: Become a Baked Ziti Boss

Want to take your ziti to the next level? Brown that meat properly. Don't rush it. For an easy baked ziti recipe with ricotta , use good quality cheese.

It makes all the difference. A common mistake is overcooking the pasta. Al dente is your friend. You can make the sauce ahead of time.

Honestly, it tastes even better the next day.

This baked ziti recipe easy will be a winner. Just like that, you have a ziti casserole baked . Enjoy and you'll be happy you tried this homemade baked ziti .

Alright, let's chat about making this baked ziti recipe easy the best it can be. Honestly, it’s all about the details. It's like a proper Sunday roast; the little things matter!

Recipe Notes: Elevating Your Homemade Baked Ziti

Serving Up Some Ideas

Fancy a bit of pizzazz? For presentation, try individual ramekins. They look posh! A sprinkle of fresh basil never hurts.

Serve with some crusty garlic bread. A crisp Caesar salad cuts through the richness perfectly. Don't forget a bottle of something red a cheeky Merlot would be spot on.

Storage Secrets

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Refrigerate your classic baked ziti recipe in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Honestly, I doubt it'll last that long.

For freezing, portion it out first. Wrap it well, it will keep for up to 2 months. Reheating? Oven's best, but microwave works in a pinch.

Just make sure it’s piping hot!

Twists and Turns

Want a veggie version? Easy peasy. Skip the meat and chuck in some roasted veggies. Courgettes, peppers, the works. gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta.

Job done! Seasonal swap? In autumn, add some butternut squash to the sauce. Trust me, it's divine. Ever thought about a Baked ziti without ricotta ? it's an interesting twist too.

Grub's Up: The Good Stuff

Let's keep it simple. Each serving packs a good hit of protein, thanks to the meat and cheese. Carbs? Yup, from the pasta.

It's comfort food, innit. Fibre? Not loads, but enough. Mainly from the tomatoes and any added veggies. A decent source of calcium too.

Perfect for building strong bones! This Ziti Casserole Baked is pretty nutritious, right?

So there you have it! Everything you need to make this best baked ziti recipe your own. Have a go, and don't worry if it's not perfect.

Cooking is all about experimenting and enjoying the process. Trust me, once you know how to make baked ziti , you'll be whipping it up like a pro in no time.

Go on, give it a whirl! And remember, even "Jamie Oliver" had to start somewhere! Bake Ziti With Italian Sausage for a meatier experience! If you want to create some Easy 2 Person Meals , simply divide the quantities! and If you are looking for baked ziti recipe easy , the above is the way! Enjoy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make baked ziti ahead of time? Like, a day or two before?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead can actually enhance the flavors as they meld together. Just assemble the entire dish (unbaked), cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven, then bake as directed.

How do I store leftover baked ziti, and how long will it last?

Leftover baked ziti can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure to cool it completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container.

To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or re-bake the whole dish, covered, in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Think of it as a delightful reprise of your dinner, a bit like catching your favourite show's rerun!

I'm not a big fan of meat. Can I still learn how to make baked ziti vegetarian?

Definitely! Baked ziti is super adaptable. Simply omit the ground beef from the sauce and load it up with your favorite vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, and eggplant all work wonderfully. You might also consider adding a layer of roasted vegetables for extra flavour and texture.

It's a blank canvas for your veggie masterpiece, a culinary equivalent of Bob Ross's happy little trees!

My baked ziti always seems watery. What am I doing wrong?

A watery baked ziti is a common woe! First, make sure you're draining the cooked pasta really well. Also, ricotta cheese can release moisture, so consider using whole milk ricotta and draining it in a cheesecloth lined sieve for a bit before using it.

Finally, don't skip the step of simmering the sauce it helps thicken it up and concentrate the flavours. A little patience with the sauce will prevent the final dish from being a soggy bottom!

Can I freeze baked ziti, and if so, what's the best way to do it?

Yes, baked ziti freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping. Let it cool completely. You can freeze it whole or in individual portions. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, or place it in freezer safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed, or bake from frozen (covered) at a lower temperature (325°F/160°C) for a longer time, until heated through. This is your culinary insurance policy for busy weeks!

Is there a way to make this baked ziti recipe healthier?

You bet! To lighten things up, use ground turkey instead of ground beef, part skim ricotta, and reduce the amount of mozzarella cheese. You can also sneak in some extra veggies like finely chopped carrots or zucchini into the sauce. Serving a side salad with a light vinaigrette will complete a balanced meal.

This way, you can enjoy this comfort food without feeling like you've completely fallen off the wagon!