Save 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.
This baked ziti was the star of our last busy weeknight. The aroma alone had everyone gathered around the kitchen, and cleanup was a breeze thanks to the single pan method.
Ingredients
- Pasta & Sauce: 340 g (12 oz) dried ziti or penne, 700 ml (24 oz) jar marinara sauce, 500 ml (2 cups) water, 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme), ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), salt and pepper (to taste)
- Cheeses: 250 g (1 cup) ricotta cheese, 120 g (1 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese, 30 g (¼ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh: 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Sauté Garlic:
- In a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Pasta & Sauce:
- Add dried ziti, marinara sauce, water, Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring pasta is submerged.
- Simmer & Bake:
- Bring to a simmer, then cover with foil or a lid and transfer to the oven. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Add Cheeses:
- Remove pan from oven and stir gently. Dollop ricotta cheese over the top, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Final Bake:
- Return to oven uncovered. Bake an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Rest & Garnish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Save Baked ziti is on repeat in our home, especially when everyone craves a hearty dinner and we want to relax together while it bakes.
Required Tools
Large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, aluminum foil or oven-safe lid, measuring cups and spoons, wooden spoon or spatula
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 495, Total Fat 18 g, Carbohydrates 63 g, Protein 21 g
Customization Tips
Add cooked Italian sausage or sautéed vegetables (such as spinach or mushrooms) for extra flavor and nutrition. Substitute penne or rigatoni if ziti is unavailable.
Save This one-pan baked ziti delivers all the flavors you love without extra fuss. Enjoy every cheesy bite with those you love!
Common Questions
- → Can I substitute penne for ziti in this dish?
Yes, penne or rigatoni works well as a substitute, maintaining similar texture and bake time.
- → How do I get a crispier cheese topping?
Broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking until the cheese browns and bubbles.
- → Can I add vegetables or meat to this dish?
Absolutely, sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cooked Italian sausage can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
- → What type of cheese blend is used?
A combination of ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan creates a creamy and flavorful topping.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as presented it is vegetarian-friendly. Meat add-ins are optional.