Sunday Baked Ziti

Name: Sunday Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Sunday Baked Ziti for my family. It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures, with layers of cheesy goodness and pasta baked to perfection. Every time I pull it out of the oven, the aroma fills my kitchen and gets everyone excited for dinner. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover pasta and sauce, making it both delicious and economical. Whether it's a cozy family gathering or a casual get-together with friends, this dish is always a hit.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:37:11.132Z

When I first tried making Baked Ziti, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying it was. I decided to put a twist on the traditional recipe by adding extra layers of cheese and a touch of Italian seasoning. It turned out to be a family favorite! One tip I've learned over the years is to let the dish rest after baking; this helps the layers set and makes serving much easier.

As I perfect my Sunday Baked Ziti recipe, I can't help but try different sauces and cheeses to give it a unique flair. My current go-to is a mix of ricotta and mozzarella that creates a wonderfully creamy texture. The best part? Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying meal that's packed with flavor
Cheesy layers melt beautifully in every bite
Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers

      

The Importance of Choosing the Right Pasta

Selecting the right pasta is crucial for the success of your Baked Ziti. Ziti, with its tube shape, holds onto the sauce and cheese perfectly, allowing each bite to be a flavorful experience. If you don't have ziti on hand, other tubular pastas like penne or rigatoni can work as substitutes, but keep in mind that the texture and mouthfeel may vary slightly.

When boiling your ziti, make sure to salt the water generously. This trick not only enhances the pasta's taste but also contributes to the overall flavor of your dish. Cook the pasta just until al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven, preventing a mushy texture.

Layering for Maximum Flavor

The art of layering is essential when assembling your Baked Ziti. Start with a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of your dish to prevent sticking and to create a moist base. As you build the layers, ensure that the ricotta mixture is evenly distributed; this balance of textures contributes to the overall delight of each serving.

To achieve the perfect cheese stretch, use a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan. The mozzarella gives that ooey-gooey melt, while the Parmesan adds a nutty richness and a nice crunchy top. Don’t skimp on the cheese at the top—it’s what makes that beautiful, golden crust.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Sunday Baked Ziti:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to prepare everything before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Baked Ziti:

Cook the Pasta

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

Mix the Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Dish

In a large baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, then spread half of the ricotta mixture and a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with marinara sauce and a generous topping of Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let the baked ziti sit for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Sunday Baked Ziti with a side salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding cooked Italian sausage or sautéed vegetables to the layers. Additionally, using a mix of cheeses can elevate the dish even more.

Make-Ahead Tips

Baked Ziti is a fantastic dish for meal prep! You can assemble it a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking—it helps it cook evenly. Alternatively, you can freeze an unbaked version for up to two months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.

If you decide to freeze, consider undercooking the pasta slightly when boiling. This way, when you bake it from the frozen state, it won’t become too soft. You might also want to add a little extra marinara or a splash of water before baking to keep everything moist during the cooking process.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your Baked Ziti experience, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad and garlic bread. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the cheese, while garlic bread provides that perfect crunch to balance the dish’s creamy textures. Offering a sprinkle of red pepper flakes at the table can also add a delightful kick for those who enjoy a little heat.

For variations, feel free to incorporate vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into your layers. Sauté them first to remove excess moisture, which can otherwise make your ziti watery. You can also swap half of the ricotta for cottage cheese for a slightly different flavor profile and added protein without compromising the dish's creaminess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Baked Ziti a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Baked Ziti can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping in foil and storing in an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese can be a great alternative if you're looking for a lighter option. Just blend it a bit for a smoother consistency.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.