If you’ve been searching for the ultimate comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Baked Ziti Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to dinner. It’s a luscious blend of tender pasta embraced by a velvety ricotta mixture, all swimming in rich marinara sauce and topped with golden, gooey melted mozzarella. Every bite delivers that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and tangy flavors that define classic Italian-American fare. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving something cozy, this baked ziti brings deliciousness every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but essential ingredients is the first step to creating a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and color. Each element plays a role in making this Creamy Baked Ziti Recipe unforgettable — from the pasta’s firm bite to the luscious cheese layers.
- 12 oz ziti pasta: The perfect tubular shape to hold all that creamy, cheesy goodness inside.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: A tangy, rich tomato base that infuses every layer with vibrant Italian flavor.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds a dreamy creaminess and smooth texture to the dish.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella: Melts beautifully to create that irresistible golden, bubbly topping.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan: Provides a sharp, nutty bite that complements the creaminess.
- 1 egg: Binds the ricotta mixture so it stays perfectly creamy without being runny.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs adding warmth and depth.
- Salt & pepper to taste: To enhance and balance every flavor in the dish.
How to Make Creamy Baked Ziti Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Pasta
Begin by warming your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, cook the ziti pasta in salted boiling water just until it reaches al dente—firm to the bite but not mushy. This texture ensures your baked ziti holds together beautifully without becoming too soft after baking. Drain the pasta well to avoid excess moisture in your casserole.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This combination brings the luscious texture and those savory flavors that make this sauce stand out.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Grab a baking dish and start by spreading half of the cooked ziti pasta evenly on the bottom. Dollop and spread half of your ricotta mixture over the noodles, then spoon half of the marinara sauce on top. Repeat these layers one more time to build a hearty, flavorful casserole. This layering technique ensures every bite has the perfect balance of pasta, cheese, and sauce.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
Finally, top the assembled layers with shredded mozzarella cheese. This will melt into a golden, bubbly crust that makes the dish irresistibly inviting. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until you see the sauce bubbling around the edges and the mozzarella gloriously browned on top.
How to Serve Creamy Baked Ziti Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or freshly chopped fresh basil or parsley adds a bright finish that balances the creamy richness. You can also drizzle a little good quality olive oil on top before serving to elevate the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce and cheese. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts also provide a lovely contrast of texture and color.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Creamy Baked Ziti Recipe family-style straight from the baking dish to highlight that homey, casual feeling. For a dinner party, consider portioning it out into individual ramekins or mini cocottes for a charming personalized touch. You can even sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking for an added crunch surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This baked ziti keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when covered tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers a delight to enjoy.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the unbaked assembled casserole covered tightly with foil. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to bake, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, a microwave works well for individual portions, just cover loosely and heat in 1-2 minute increments.
FAQs
Can I use penne instead of ziti?
Absolutely! Penne is a perfect substitute and will work just as well in this Creamy Baked Ziti Recipe thanks to its similar shape and texture that hold the sauce beautifully.
Is this recipe vegetarian friendly?
Yes, the recipe as written is vegetarian. If you want to add some protein, ground beef or sausage can be browned and stirred into the marinara before layering for a heartier meal.
Can I make this dairy-free or vegan?
To make it dairy-free, try using plant-based ricotta and mozzarella alternatives, along with a marinara sauce that contains no added cheese. The texture will be different but still delicious.
What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cooking the pasta just until al dente and draining it thoroughly helps prevent sogginess. Also, avoid adding extra water or sauce to the dish beyond what the recipe calls for.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and bake later?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great make-ahead meal for busy days.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Baked Ziti Recipe is truly a celebration of comfort food, perfect for any occasion when you want something warm, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. It’s a recipe that’s simple to make but full of flavor, and I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with your loved ones. Trust me, once you experience this delightful combination of creamy ricotta, hearty pasta, and rich tomato sauce, it will become a beloved classic in your kitchen too.
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Creamy Baked Ziti Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic Italian-American comfort food featuring al dente ziti pasta baked with a creamy ricotta mixture, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, resulting in a bubbly, golden cheesy casserole perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz ziti pasta
Sauce and Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking your ziti casserole.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the ziti pasta in salted water until it is al dente, meaning tender but still firm to the bite. Drain the pasta thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and evenly blended to add a creamy texture to the casserole.
- Layer Ingredients: In a baking dish, spread half of the cooked pasta evenly. Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, then cover with half of the marinara sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, ricotta mixture, and sauce to build rich flavor and texture layers.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top of the final layer to ensure a golden, bubbly cheese crust upon baking.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
Notes
- For a heartier meal, add cooked ground beef or sausage to the sauce layers.
- If you don’t have ziti pasta, penne can be used as a convenient substitute.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
