This Homemade Baked Ziti Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, featuring layers of tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese topped with sourdough bread crumbs.
Let’s dive into this warm and comforting dish, perfect for cozy evenings and effortless family dinners. IT’S CHEESY, HEARTY, AND OH-SO DELICIOUS!
If you’re craving a hearty, flavor-packed pasta bake, this homemade baked ziti with meat sauce is the perfect dish to bring warmth to your table.
Made with ziti pasta cooked al dente and layered with a rich homemade meat sauce featuring Italian sausage and ground beef, every bite is packed with savory goodness. Ziti pasta, mozzarella cheese, and a flavorful homemade meat sauce made with Italian sausage, tomato sauce, and red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
A creamy ricotta mixture, blended with parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese, creates a luscious texture, while a crispy sourdough topping adds an irresistible crunch.
Over time, I’ve perfected this classic recipe, adjusting the pasta sauce and layering techniques to ensure the ideal balance of flavors in every forkful. Baking it in a casserole dish until golden and bubbly locks in the richness, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti
Cozy nights call for a warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal, and this Homemade Baked Ziti Recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Here’s why it’s a must-have for your dinner table:
01. Layers of Pasta & Cheese
Tender ziti pasta, creamy ricotta, parmesan, and melty mozzarella come together in every bite. Baking it to golden perfection blends all the flavors into a rich, satisfying dish.
02. Quick & Easy to Make
With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, this baked ziti is perfect for any skill level. Follow the step-by-step instructions in the recipe card for a stress-free, delicious meal.
03. Perfect for Meal Prep
Make it ahead and store it in an airtight container for a quick weeknight dinner. It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy the same cheesy, hearty goodness the next day.
04. A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite
From family dinners to potlucks, this dish is a guaranteed hit. It’s comforting, filling, and sure to be loved by everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- Ziti Pasta – The perfect tube-shaped pasta that holds sauce well and stays firm while baking, ensuring a hearty and delicious texture.
- Italian Sausage – Adds deep, savory flavors and a hint of spice, making the homemade meat sauce rich and flavorful.
- Marinara Sauce – A robust and tangy sauce that ties all the ingredients together, soaking into the ziti noodles for a flavorful bite.
Tools for This Recipe
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish – A deep casserole dish is essential for layering and baking the perfect ziti.
- Large Pot for Boiling Pasta – A heavy-duty stockpot ensures your ziti cooks evenly.
- Mixing Bowls – A set of durable mixing bowls helps combine ricotta, eggs, and seasonings smoothly.
- Cheese Grater – Freshly shredded cheese melts better, making a box grater a must-have for the best texture.
With these tools, preparing your baked ziti will be simple and stress-free!
How To Make Homemade Baked Ziti
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti until just al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to keep it from clumping. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened.
Stir in the ground Italian sausage (or ground beef) and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Pour in the marinara sauce, then add Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes.
Simmer on low for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together.
Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Ziti
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
Layer half of the cooked ziti evenly over the sauce.
Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the pasta and gently spread.
Place the slices of provolone and half of the mozzarella cheese.
Add another portion of meat sauce, followed by the remaining pasta.
Top with the rest of the meat sauce, the remaining mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Make the Crispy Topping
In a small bowl, combine sourdough panko breadcrumbs(toasted slices of sourdough bread and blend them into crumbs), olive oil, garlic powder, and chopped fresh parsley or basil.
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top layer of cheese.
Step 6: Bake the Ziti
Cover the dish with foil, tenting it slightly to prevent sticking.
Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Let the baked ziti rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
You can find the full step-by-step instructions and exact ingredient measurements in the printable recipe card below.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish with extra fresh parsley or basil and serve with warm sourdough garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy this cheesy, comforting Homemade Baked Ziti Recipe with family and friends!
Tips for Best Results
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For the best texture, grate your mozzarella and Parmesan fresh.
- Cook Pasta Until Just Al Dente – Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, boil it for about 1–2 minutes less than the package directions to avoid mushy ziti.
- Layer for Maximum Flavor – Instead of mixing everything together, layer the pasta, sauce, ricotta mixture, and cheeses for the best texture and flavor in every bite.
- Let It Rest Before Serving – Allow the baked ziti to cool for 10–15 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes slicing easier, preventing a runny dish.
- Toast Your Breadcrumbs for Extra Crunch – For an extra golden, crispy topping, lightly toast sourdough bread slices before pulsing them into panko breadcrumbs. Then, toss them in a pan with olive oil and seasonings for added crunch and flavor.
Cozy Pairings
Enhance your Homemade Baked Ziti experience with these delicious homemade sides and a classic Italian-inspired dessert!
- Tiramisu Recipe (without eggs)– End your meal on a sweet note with this Tiramisu Recipe (without eggs)—a creamy, coffee-infused classic that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of baked ziti.
- Rosemary Sourdough Bread Recipe (starter or discard)– This Rosemary Sourdough Bread Recipe (starter or discard) is the perfect companion, offering a fragrant, herby crunch to soak up every bit of sauce.
- Sourdough Whole Wheat Baguette Recipe– A rustic Sourdough Whole Wheat Baguette adds a hearty, wholesome touch to your meal, perfect for dipping in marinara.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
What’s the best pasta for baked ziti?
Ziti noodles are ideal, but you can also use penne pasta or tube-shaped pasta for a similar texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
More Cozy Recipes From The Cottage;
- Homemade Sourdough Chicken Pot Pie: A Cozy Recipe
- Honey Lavender London Fog Latte Recipe; A Cozy Drink
- Homemade Minestrone Soup Recipe with Authentic Italian Flavor
- Skillet Sourdough Discard Cornbread Recipe
The Best Homemade Baked Ziti Recipe
Ingredients
- Base Ingredients
- 1 pound 450g dry ziti pasta
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 1 pound 450g ground Italian sausage
- 1 pound 450g ground beef *optional for extra meaty sauce
- 3 cups 710ml marinara sauce (use homemade or your favorite jarred brand)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- Cheese Layers
- 1 cup 250g ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg beaten
- 12 slices 119g of provolone cheese
- 2 cups 225g shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup 50g grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- Topping
- 1 cup 120g sourdough panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil
How To Make
1. Prepare the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente (about 7–8 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
2. Make the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the ground Italian sausage and ground beef *optional and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Add the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Simmer the sauce on low heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
- In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
4. Assemble the Ziti
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread â…“ of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
- Layer ½ of the cooked ziti evenly over the sauce.
- Drop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the pasta and gently spread.
- Sprinkle with shredded provolone and 1 cup of mozzarella.
- Add another â…“ of the meat sauce and the remaining ziti pasta.
- Top with the rest of the meat sauce, 1 cup of mozzarella, and ÂĽ cup Parmesan.
5. Make the Crispy Topping
- To make sourdough panko breadcrumbs, toast 3–4 slices of sourdough bread until golden brown and crisp. Let them cool completely, then pulse them in a spice grinder or food processor until they resemble sand-like crumbles.
- In a small bowl, mix the sourdough panko breadcrumbs with olive oil, garlic powder, and chopped fresh basil or parsley.
- Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top layer of cheese.
6. Bake the Ziti
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Let the baked ziti sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-packaged cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Cook pasta until just al dente – Overcooked pasta can become mushy when baked.
- Layer ingredients evenly – This ensures a balanced flavor and texture in every bite.
- Let it rest before serving – Allowing the ziti to cool slightly helps set the layers for easier serving.
- Make it ahead for deeper flavor – Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with extra fresh parsley or basil for a bright, fresh finish.
- Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 60 minutes, or until heated through.
