Sunday Baked Ziti

Name: Sunday Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Ideas

I love making Sunday Baked Ziti for my family; it's a comforting, hearty dish that brings everyone together around the dinner table. The delightful blend of pasta, marinara sauce, and melted cheese creates a rich, flavorful experience that reminds me of cozy family gatherings. Preparation is a breeze, which is perfect for busy weekends. Plus, leftovers are just as delicious, making this dish a win-win for me. This is why I often turn to this recipe to make my Sundays special.

Created by

Megan Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:34:36.202Z

When I first tried making baked ziti, I was overwhelmed by how simple yet satisfying it was. Mixing the pasta with a robust tomato sauce and layering it with gooey cheese took my family's favorite pasta dish to a whole new level. My tip is to let the ziti rest after baking to set the layers; this makes serving much easier and enhances the flavors.

As I experimented with different cheeses, I discovered that incorporating a mix of mozzarella and ricotta not only added creaminess but also gave the dish a delightful complexity. This recipe has become a go-to for Sunday dinners, and I can't wait for you to try it!

        Why you will love this recipe
        Cheesy goodness with every bite
Perfectly baked with a crispy top layer
Great for meal prep and leftovers

      

The Pasta Choice

Choosing the right pasta is crucial for your Sunday Baked Ziti. While ziti is traditional, penne works well too due to its hollow shape, which holds sauce and cheese beautifully. Ensure you cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. If overcooked, you risk mushy pasta that won’t hold its shape or texture during baking.

For a richer flavor, consider mixing in whole-wheat or gluten-free ziti. Whole-wheat pasta adds a nuttier taste and more fiber, while gluten-free options provide inclusivity for various dietary needs. Just make sure to adjust cooking times according to package directions, ensuring the pasta is not too soft before mixing with the cheese and sauce.

Building Layers for Flavor

Layering is key to achieving a well-balanced flavor in your Baked Ziti. Start with a layer of marinara sauce to prevent sticking and add moisture to the dish. Adding the ricotta mixture next gives a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the melted mozzarella on top. When you repeat these layers, make sure to spread evenly to ensure every bite is a delicious combination of all ingredients.

To elevate the flavor even further, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the ricotta mixture. These additions not only enhance the nutritional profile but also add a vibrant color and texture contrast. Just be sure to finely chop or lightly blend these vegetables so they blend well and don’t overwhelm the dish.

Perfecting the Bake

When baking your Ziti, the temperature and timing are critical to achieve a perfectly melted, golden cheese topping. Preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) ensures even baking. Keep an eye on the dish in the last 10 minutes; you want the cheese to bubble and become slightly browned, but not burned. If it’s browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Letting the baked ziti rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving allows the layers to set, making for easier slicing and serving. Trust me, this time in the pan boosts flavor as the ingredients meld together. It also allows the ziti to cool slightly, enhancing the cheesy goodness with each bite.

Ingredients

1 lb ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the mozzarella, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Layer the Ingredients

In a large baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, then half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat the layers, ending with marinara sauce.

Add Toppings

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the final layer.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the ziti for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Pro Tips

For an added boost of flavor, consider adding cooked ground beef or sausage to the marinara sauce. You can also customize this recipe by mixing in your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can’t find ricotta cheese, cottage cheese can serve as a suitable substitute. To maintain the creaminess, blend it beforehand to achieve a smoother texture. Alternatively, mascarpone can elevate the dish's richness but may increase the calorie content slightly. Just remember that it has a sweeter profile than ricotta, which could affect the final taste.

For a dairy-free version, swap out mozzarella and ricotta for plant-based cheeses that melt well, such as cashew cheese blends or almond-based cheeses. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just be sure to adjust seasonings accordingly for balance.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Sunday Baked Ziti with a side salad and some garlic knots for a complete family meal. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the ziti beautifully. You can add complementary ingredients like cherry tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil before serving to bring a burst of freshness and color. It not only looks appealing but also enhances the overall flavor profile. Additionally, a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a delightful finishing touch if you're aiming for something extra special.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers from your Sunday Baked Ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Be sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

When you're ready to reheat, thaw the ziti overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through, covering with foil to prevent unwanted browning. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium heat, ensuring even heating to keep the cheese gooey and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking stage and refrigerate the assembled ziti overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! Just cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a vegan alternative if you want a different flavor profile or dietary option.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce, or mix in some chopped jalapeños for extra heat!