Cheesy Baked Ziti

Like lasagna, but way easier and cheaper! Imagine layers of tender pasta, a rich, garlicky tomato sauce, and a gooey blanket of melted mozzarella bubbling on top. One bite, and you’ll wonder why you ever spent so much on takeout!

There’s nothing quite like a big ol’ dish of Cheesy Baked Ziti to make you feel right at home. It’s hearty, rich, and packed with layers of cheesy goodness—without all the fuss of making lasagna. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a hungry crowd, this recipe brings all the comfort without breaking the bank. So grab a baking dish, a big spoon, and get ready to dig into pure, melty perfection!

Ingredients

• 12 ounces ziti pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground Italian sausage (or ground beef, if preferred)
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)

Supplies Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet
• 9×13 baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Instructions

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti 1-2 minutes less than package instructions (it will finish cooking in the oven). Drain and set aside.

Brown the Meat & Make the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage (or ground beef) and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes.

Layer the Ziti
Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta, sour cream, and 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella.

Spread half of the cooked pasta into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Pour half of the sauce over the pasta, then dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the top. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining sauce.

Bake Until Bubbly
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy
Let the baked ziti sit for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for a little extra flair. Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until warm.
Freezing: Assemble the ziti (without baking), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Recipe Tips & Tricks

Extra Creamy: Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream to the sauce for an extra luscious finish.
Meat-Free Option: Skip the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.
Crispy Cheese Topping: Broil the ziti for the last 2 minutes for an irresistibly golden, bubbly top layer.

Variations

Four-Cheese Ziti: Add shredded provolone or gouda for an even cheesier bite.
Spicy Ziti: Use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes for a fiery twist.
White Baked Ziti: Swap the marinara for Alfredo sauce and use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of sausage!

FAQ

Can I use penne instead of ziti?
Absolutely! Any tubular pasta like penne or rigatoni works just as well.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I keep baked ziti from getting dry?
Don’t overcook the pasta before baking, and be sure to use plenty of sauce to keep it rich and creamy!

This Cheesy Baked Ziti is the kind of meal that brings folks together around the table, sharing stories and second helpings. It’s simple, affordable, and oh-so-satisfying, making it the perfect dish for busy nights or casual gatherings. So go ahead, grab a plate, and let’s dig in!

Disclosure: Y’all, this post may contain affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Keeps the cheese melting and the oven preheating—thank ya kindly!