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; 1 lb ground beef or sausage; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Sunday Baked Ziti as a comforting dish that brings everyone to the table. The aroma of bubbling cheese and rich tomato sauce fills my kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. It not only satisfies my cravings but also allows me to experiment with various ingredients. Deliciously cheesy with a hint of spice, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it!

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:25:14.838Z

When I first tried my hand at making Baked Ziti, I was surprised by how easy it was to create such a delicious meal. The key is to layer the ziti perfectly with the sauce and cheese so that every bite is flavorful. I often tweak the recipe by adding different protein sources or vegetables, which really enhances the dish's overall taste.

The method of mixing ricotta with an egg really helps bind the filling, resulting in a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the sauce. This is a dish that never fails to bring smiles, and I always seem to have leftovers to enjoy later!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A comforting family favorite that's perfect for gatherings
A delightful blend of tangy tomato sauce and creamy cheeses
Easily customizable with your choice of proteins and vegetables

      

The Importance of Layering

Layering ingredients in baked ziti is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Start with a layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the baking dish; this prevents the pasta from sticking and ensures it absorbs the rich tomato flavor. When adding the cheese mixture, distribute it evenly across the pasta to allow every bite to be equally cheesy and creamy. Finally, topping with mozzarella before baking helps create that irresistible golden, bubbly crust.

If you prefer a bit more crunch, consider adding breadcrumbs to the top layer along with the mozzarella. This simple addition adds a delightful texture contrast that enhances the overall eating experience. Just toss some plain or seasoned breadcrumbs with a touch of olive oil before sprinkling them on the cheese layer for an extra crunchy finish.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

This baked ziti recipe is highly adaptable, making it easy to accommodate different dietary needs or preferences. For instance, if you're vegetarian, you can swap the ground meat with a plant-based alternative or add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just sauté the vegetables until tender before mixing them into the meat sauce; this will help them meld beautifully with the flavors of the dish.

If you want to lighten the recipe, consider using low-fat ricotta or mozzarella. The flavor won't change significantly, but you'll reduce the overall calorie count. Alternatively, for a spicy kick, mix in some red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or use spicy Italian sausage, adjusting to your heat preference. These tweaks allow you to enjoy this comforting dish while still being mindful of your dietary choices.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this scrumptious Sunday Baked Ziti:

Ingredients

12 oz ziti pasta
1 lb ground beef or sausage
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

With your ingredients ready, you can move on to the steps for making this dish.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Sunday Baked Ziti:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Mix the Cheese Filling

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

Layer the Ingredients

In a 9x13 baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by half the ziti, dollops of the ricotta mixture, and a layer of mozzarella. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Top the dish with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy!

Now that you've made your Sunday Baked Ziti, it's time to dig in!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce. Leftovers reheat wonderfully and can be enjoyed throughout the week.

Make-Ahead Tips

Baked ziti is an excellent make-ahead meal, perfect for busy weeknights or large gatherings. You can assemble it a day in advance; just prepare it up to the baking step and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even cooking. This way, you can serve a warm, delicious dish with minimal effort.

If you're planning to freeze the assembled dish, it can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. For the best results, freeze it unbaked. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. You may need to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.

Serving Suggestions

Baked ziti is typically hearty enough to be a stand-alone dish, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the cheese. Garlic bread or warm breadsticks make for excellent additions, perfect for scooping up any extra sauce left on the plate. Consider a side of roasted vegetables for a nutrient boost and added color to your meal.

For entertaining, serve baked ziti family-style right from the baking dish, adding a sprinkle of fresh basil on top just before serving. This not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also brings a bright flavor that complements the dish beautifully. If you're feeling indulgent, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil right before serving can elevate the flavors even more.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the ziti a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Just bake it before serving.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or mascarpone can be used as alternatives for a slightly different flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

→ Can I add vegetables to Baked Ziti?

Absolutely! Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms make great additions and can be mixed into the meat sauce.