Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 lb ziti pasta

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the meat sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.

3. Assemble the baked ziti: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with half of the mozzarella, ricotta cheese, and the meat sauce. Mix until evenly coated.

4. Layer in baking dish: Pour pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti

• Cheese options: Blend provolone or fontina with mozzarella for extra flavor.

• Make ahead: Assemble the dish a day in advance and bake before serving.

• Add vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini make a hearty variation.