Save It A comforting, budget-friendly pasta bake featuring tender ziti, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese—all baked together in just one pan for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
I made this baked ziti for my family last Sunday and everyone loved how cheesy and flavorful it was without a mountain of dishes to wash after dinner.
Ingredients
- Dried ziti or penne: 340 g (12 oz)
- Marinara sauce: 700 ml (24 oz) jar
- Water: 500 ml (2 cups)
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme): 1 tsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): ½ tsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Ricotta cheese: 250 g (1 cup)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 120 g (1 cup)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 30 g (¼ cup)
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish): 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Prep Oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant
- Combine Pasta & Sauce:
- Add dried ziti, marinara sauce, water, Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring pasta is submerged
- Bake Covered:
- Bring to a simmer, cover with foil or lid, and transfer to oven. Bake for 25 minutes
- Add Cheese:
- Remove pan, stir gently. Dollop ricotta over top, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan
- Bake Uncovered:
- Return to oven uncovered, bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden
- Finish & Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving
Save It Ziti bake nights are a tradition for us, especially when we want something cozy for movie night together.
Required Tools
Large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, aluminum foil or oven-safe lid, measuring cups and spoons, wooden spoon or spatula
Nutritional Information
Calories: 495, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 63 g, Protein: 21 g (per serving)
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal
Save It This one-pan ziti is sure to be a regular in your meal rotation and makes dinner both easy and delicious.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the ziti pasta with other types?
Yes, penne or rigatoni can be used as alternatives while maintaining similar texture and cooking times.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from sticking during baking?
Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in sauce and water before baking. Stir gently midway if possible to avoid sticking.
- → What herbs complement this dish best?
Dried basil, oregano, and thyme are classic Italian herbs that enhance the flavor profile nicely.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble it in advance and refrigerate before baking; add extra baking time if starting cold.
- → What is the best way to achieve a golden cheese topping?
Bake uncovered for the final minutes and optionally broil for 2-3 minutes to get bubbly, golden cheese.
- → Are there suggested additions to vary the dish?
Try adding cooked Italian sausage or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.