Quick Comfort Food Baked Ziti

Name: Quick Comfort Food Baked Ziti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Food Inspiration

I love whipping up a batch of Quick Comfort Food Baked Ziti when I'm looking for something delicious yet uncomplicated. This dish is not just easy to prepare; it’s also packed with flavors that come together beautifully. The gooey cheese, savory marinara, and perfectly cooked ziti make for a satisfying meal that the whole family can enjoy. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, allowing me to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with my loved ones.

Created by

Grace Walker

Last updated on 2026-02-10T18:29:36.608Z

Baked ziti has always been a go-to comfort food for me. I remember the first time I made it — I took a simple recipe and added my twist with extra herbs and spices. The result was beyond my expectations; the flavors melded perfectly, creating a cozy meal that brought everyone to the table. I learned that letting the baked ziti rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven allows the cheese to set, making each serving cleaner and easier to dish out.

One of my favorite things about this dish is how customizable it is. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or cater to dietary preferences. I’ve added spinach for a nutrient boost and even mixed in some spicy sausage for a kick! Every variation turns out delicious, making it a recipe I never tire of repeating.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A comforting, cheesy delight that satisfies cravings
Simple ingredients make it accessible for any home cook
Easily adaptable to include your favorite veggies or proteins

Choosing the Right Pasta

While ziti is the traditional pasta for this recipe, you can experiment with other shapes like penne or rigatoni. These shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully and offer a delightful bite. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to ensure they remain al dente. Undercooking slightly is key here; they will soak up some sauce during baking, leading to a perfect texture.

For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pasta alternatives that are widely available. Most brands will provide similar cooking instructions, but be careful not to overcook them, as gluten-free pasta can become mushy if left in the water too long.

Customizing Your Baked Ziti

One of the best features of this baked ziti is its versatility. You can easily add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms by sautéing them first to reduce moisture before mixing them into the ziti. This not only adds color but also enhances the nutritional value without compromising the dish's creamy texture.

If you’re looking for extra protein, consider incorporating cooked ground beef, turkey, or even Italian sausage into the sauce. Just ensure any meat is cooked thoroughly before adding; this will enhance flavor and prevent excessive greasiness in your finished dish.

Ingredients

Baked Ziti Ingredients

12 oz ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Pasta

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Layer the Dish

Spread half of the ziti mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top. Add the rest of the ziti mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella.

Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the mix before baking.

Make-Ahead Tips

Baked ziti can easily be assembled ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Prepare the dish up to the layering step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to cook, remove the wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

If you're planning to freeze the baked ziti, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for about three months. To reheat, bake from frozen but extend the cooking time; I recommend an hour at 375°F (190°C), removing the cover for the last 15 minutes to allow the cheese to bubble up and get golden.

Serving Suggestions

This baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad for a complete meal. A mix of greens topped with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread is also a classic choice that complements the gooey cheese and savory marinara beautifully, adding a crunchy texture.

For a gourmet twist, consider drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze on each serving or adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a hint of heat. These small touches elevate the dish and can cater to different taste preferences at the dinner table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare baked ziti in advance?

Yes, you can assemble baked ziti a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! You can freeze baked ziti before baking. Wrap it tightly and it should keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Mascarpone or cottage cheese can be good alternatives if you prefer something different.

→ How do I know when the baked ziti is done?

It's done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out hot.