Sunday Baked Ziti

Name: Sunday Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Sunday Baked Ziti; it brings a comforting warmth to my kitchen. The layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese create an irresistible aroma that fills the house. This recipe is not only simple but perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. I've experimented with various ingredients over time, but finding the right balance of spices and textures is key. Whether it’s the creamy ricotta or the tangy marinara, each bite sets the mood for a delightful meal that everyone enjoys.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:31:18.779Z

My journey with Sunday Baked Ziti began when I was looking for a dish that could please a crowd. I wanted something that felt luxurious but didn't require hours in the kitchen. After several trials, I realized that the layering technique is crucial—the right distribution of sauce and cheese ensures that every bite is just as good as the last.

I've found that allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking enhances the flavors significantly. This way, the ziti absorbs the sauce and becomes even more delectable. Trust me, letting it sit is worth the wait!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A cozy, comforting meal that everyone will love
Rich layers of flavor with every bite
Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in Sunday Baked Ziti plays an essential role in building flavor and texture. The ziti pasta serves as the sturdy foundation, capturing the sauce and cheese, creating a cohesive dish. Opt for high-quality marinara sauce; a well-seasoned sauce can elevate the entire dish, while a lackluster sauce might leave it bland. You can also make your own sauce if time permits, incorporating fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for an extra depth of flavor.

The cheese mixture is crucial for achieving that rich creaminess. Ricotta provides a light texture and flavor, while the egg acts as a binding agent, helping the mixture hold its shape during baking. For a bit of tang, consider adding some cottage cheese or a splash of sour cream. Experimenting with the cheese components can lead to delightful variations; for instance, mixing in some crumbled feta can introduce a unique twist.

Baking Techniques for Optimal Texture

When assembling your baked ziti, layering is key. Make sure to spread each layer evenly to allow for consistent baking. If you prefer a slightly crispy topping, leave a small space around the edges of the dish so that steam escapes. I recommend covering the dish loosely with foil during the first half of baking; this ensures the inside cooks through while preventing the cheese from browning too quickly.

The visual cue for readiness is the bubbling cheese and golden edges. If you find that your cheese hasn't browned after the initial bake time, you can place it under the broiler for a couple of minutes—just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Remember, the ziti will continue to cook slightly as it rests, so it’s essential to allow it to sit after removing from the oven.

Ingredients

For the Baked Ziti

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

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Assemble the Ziti

In a large baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, then layer half of the ricotta mixture, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining marinara, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating cooked ground beef or Italian sausage into the layers. You can also mix in vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a healthy twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Sunday Baked Ziti is excellent for meal prep. You can assemble it a day in advance, keeping the layers just intact. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, it may require an extra 10-15 minutes in the oven. Freezing is another viable option; once baked, allow it to cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

When reheating leftovers, do so gently. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil to retain moisture, reheating for about 25-30 minutes. If you like, you can sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before baking to restore that creamy, melty texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To serve, I recommend pairing Sunday Baked Ziti with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil complements the rich flavors beautifully. If you're feeling fancy, try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of spice or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for sweetness.

For variations, you can easily swap in different proteins or veggies. Try adding cooked sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider layering in some roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Customizing your ziti not only caters to different tastes but also allows you to experiment with various flavors and textures.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the ziti a day before and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes of baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a mix of cream cheese and sour cream as a substitute.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.