Introduction and Origin
Baked ziti is a comforting Italian-American classic, known for its rich layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and tomato sauce. While its roots trace back to Italian pasta al forno, the American version emerged as a homey casserole perfect for feeding families and crowds. Over the decades, it has become a weeknight staple and potluck favorite—easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and undeniably satisfying.
Cultural Significance
This dish is more than just a casserole—it’s tradition in a pan. Baked ziti often appears at Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, and neighborhood potlucks. Its make-ahead convenience and freezer-friendliness have made it a hero of busy households, while its gooey, saucy, cheesy layers guarantee second helpings and satisfied sighs. It’s the kind of meal people associate with comfort, celebration, and sharing.
Ingredients Quantity (Serves 6–8)
Main Ingredients:
1 lb ziti pasta (or penne)
1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy), casings removed
1 jar (24–28 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade)
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1 egg
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Optional Additions
Add spinach or sautéed mushrooms for a veggie boost
Use ground beef or turkey instead of sausage
Swap ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option
Add red pepper flakes for a little kick
Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a pop of color and flavor
Tips for Success
Cook pasta al dente, since it will continue cooking in the oven
Use a quality marinara sauce or make your own for a richer taste
Mix mozzarella into the pasta AND save some for topping—it creates that perfect golden, cheesy layer
Let the ziti rest 10 minutes after baking so it holds together when slicing
This dish freezes well—assemble, cover tightly, and freeze unbaked for future meals
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it into crumbles.
Stir in marinara sauce, basil, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
In a small bowl, combine ricotta, egg, and half of the Parmesan. Mix until smooth.
In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with most of the sausage sauce (reserve about 1 cup for topping), ricotta mixture, and 1 cup mozzarella. Mix until combined.
Transfer pasta mixture to the baking dish. Spread the reserved sauce over the top and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Description
This baked ziti is the ultimate comfort food: layers of tender pasta, savory sausage, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella. The golden, cheesy crust gives way to a gooey, saucy center that’s packed with flavor and heartiness.
I swear when my hubby and I ate this, we stuffed ourselves silly. We both needed help to get in bed!
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on 8 servings)
Calories: 530
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 850mg
Note: Nutritional values vary based on sausage and sauce brands.
Conclusion and Recommendation
This ultimate baked ziti is perfect for when you need something hearty, delicious, and downright comforting. Whether you’re feeding family, hosting guests, or just want leftovers that you’ll actually look forward to, this recipe delivers. It’s rich, cheesy, and a total crowd-pleaser.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While baked ziti is a decadent dish, small tweaks can make it more balanced. Try whole wheat pasta, part-skim cheeses, or add vegetables to boost nutrition. By making it at home, you’re already avoiding preservatives and excess sodium often found in frozen or restaurant versions. Comfort food doesn’t have to mean compromise.