Sunday Baked Ziti

Name: Sunday Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 pound ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Sunday Baked Ziti because it brings back memories of cozy family gatherings. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, combining pasta with zesty marinara and melted cheese for a comforting meal. As we gather around the table, the aroma fills the house and sets the perfect tone for a relaxing evening. It’s simple to prepare, yet incredibly flavorful, making it a go-to recipe for busy weekends. I can't wait to share this favorite with you; it's sure to be a hit in your home too!

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:34:13.921Z

Every Sunday, my family and I would gather around the table to enjoy a hearty meal together, and Sunday Baked Ziti was always a highlight. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile; I love adding different vegetables or meats based on what I have on hand. Recently, I experimented with adding spinach and turkey sausage, which turned out deliciously.

This dish works wonderfully for meal prep, too. I often make a large batch on Sundays to enjoy throughout the week. Just reheat and savor the rich flavors all over again! You can adjust the cheese depending on your preferences, making it truly your own.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty layers of cheesy goodness that are sure to fill you up
Versatile recipe that allows for endless variations
Perfect for meal prepping or serving a crowd

      

Mastering the Pasta

Cooking the ziti pasta to the perfect al dente texture is vital for your baked ziti. Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushiness once it is baked, so follow the package instructions closely, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it and taste a piece a minute or two before the time is up. You want it to be firm yet tender, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.

Adding salt to the boiling water not only flavors the pasta but also elevates the overall taste of the dish. Aim for a generous amount; it should taste like the sea. This crucial step can greatly enhance the overall flavor profile of your baked ziti, so don’t skip it. After draining, you can toss the pasta with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Building Layers for Flavor

The layering process is fundamental to achieving that glorious texture contrast in baked ziti. When you layer the ingredients, be sure to spread each layer evenly for consistent flavor in every bite. Start with half the ziti mixture, then top it with marinara and cheese. The cheese not only adds richness, but it also creates a barrier that traps moisture, which helps to keep the pasta from drying out during baking.

Consider using different types of marinara sauce or adding cooked vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, for extra flavor and nutrition. For a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the marinara sauce or cheese mixture, giving your baked ziti a little extra personality.

Tips for Perfecting Your Bake

When it comes to baking your ziti, don't skip covering it with aluminum foil initially. This helps to steam the dish and prevents the cheese from browning too quickly. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of baking to achieve that beautiful golden finish. Keep an eye out for bubbly edges and a browned top; these are signs that your ziti is perfectly baked.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare and assemble the ziti a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time as it will be starting from cold. This flexibility makes it an excellent option for busy families or unexpected guests!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Sunday Baked Ziti:

Ingredients

1 pound ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
1 pound ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Sunday Baked Ziti:

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix in the ricotta mixture until everything is well incorporated.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer half of the ziti mixture to a greased baking dish. Layer with more marinara sauce and half of the remaining mozzarella cheese. Spread the rest of the ziti mixture on top and finish with the remaining mozzarella.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy your hearty, comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in your favorite proteins, like cooked Italian sausage or ground beef. You can also incorporate vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a nutritional boost. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Baked ziti is a fantastic make-ahead meal option. You can assemble it completely and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. If you prefer to freeze it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, allowing for an additional 10-15 minutes of cooking time if starting from frozen.

Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For reheating, simply microwave portions on a plate, or place the whole dish back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 20-25 minutes covered with foil to retain moisture.

Customizable Ingredients

The beauty of baked ziti lies in its versatility. Although the classic combination uses ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Fontina, goat cheese, or even a sprinkle of blue cheese can add unique flavor dimensions. Also, if you're looking to lighten the dish, substitute low-fat ricotta or mozzarella without compromising the taste significantly.

For those observing dietary preferences, gluten-free pasta is a great alternative for this recipe. Ensure that the marinara sauce is also gluten-free, and you can create a delicious dish without the gluten. Adding protein, like seasoned ground beef or Italian sausage, can turn your baked ziti into a heartier meal, perfect for meat lovers.

Serving Suggestions

Baked ziti pairs perfectly with a simple side salad and crusty garlic bread for a satisfying meal. You can brighten up the plate with a sprinkle of fresh basil or grated Parmesan on top before serving. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil can also enhance the flavors and provide a beautiful sheen.

For a fun twist, consider serving your baked ziti in individual ramekins or oven-safe bowls for a more elegant presentation. This option is not only visually appealing but allows for easy portion control, making it a great choice for entertaining.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ziti a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it for up to 3 months. Increase baking time by 10-15 minutes if cooking from frozen.

→ What cheeses can I use?

Feel free to mix it up! You can use provolone, gouda, or even vegan cheese alternatives for a different flavor profile.

→ Is there a gluten-free version?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta, and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free as well.