Sunday Baked Ziti

Name: Sunday Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
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 large egg; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried Italian herbs; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Sunday Baked Ziti for my family gatherings. There’s something special about that bubbly cheese, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta that brings everyone together. I prepare this comforting dish in just a few steps, allowing me to enjoy precious time with my loved ones while it bakes to perfection. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors, and the heartwarming aroma fills the house, making it the ultimate cozy meal to share during weekend get-togethers.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:34:18.824Z

When I created my version of Sunday Baked Ziti, I wanted to ensure it was both delicious and easy to prepare. We experimented with various cheeses and sauces, and found that a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan gave the dish the perfect creamy texture and rich flavor. During my first attempt, I learned the importance of letting the ziti rest before serving; it helps the layers set nicely, ensuring a wonderfully cohesive dish.

I also discovered that adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce elevates the flavors without overpowering the classic taste of Italian cuisine. Making this recipe has transformed our Sundays into cherished family occasions filled with laughter, love, and of course, plenty of mouthwatering food.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Cheesy goodness that pulls apart beautifully
Flavor-packed sauce with just a hint of spice
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins

      

Crafting the Perfect Sauce

The marinara sauce plays a crucial role in the overall flavor profile of your Sunday Baked Ziti. I recommend using a high-quality store-bought option or making your own to elevate the taste. If you're looking for a deeper flavor, consider sautéing some onions and garlic in olive oil before adding your sauce. This step not only enhances the aroma but also adds an extra layer of richness. If you'd like a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be a great addition.

Don't forget to season the sauce adequately! Adding salt and pepper to taste is essential, but consider incorporating a splash of balsamic vinegar for a hint of sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Letting the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes on low heat before layering it in the dish can help meld the flavors beautifully.

Building Flavor with Cheese

The combination of cheeses in this recipe is not only to create a creamy texture but also to enhance the flavor dimensions of the dish. Ricotta cheese adds a nice moisture level and a slightly sweet taste, while mozzarella contributes that glorious gooeyness we all love. For a sharper flavor contrast, consider mixing in some crumbled goat cheese or feta, which pairs wonderfully with the marinara sauce.

When layering the cheese mixture, be mindful of spreading it evenly over the pasta. This ensures every bite delivers that creamy goodness. I like to reserve a small amount of mozzarella to sprinkle on top before the final bake. This will create a beautifully browned and bubbly finish that’s visually enticing, indicating the dish is ready to serve.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Sunday Baked Ziti is an excellent make-ahead meal that can save you time on busy weekends. After assembling the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, remove the cover and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is simple—just pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also freeze the assembled but uncooked ziti for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking, and it will taste just as delicious as the day it was made.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your Sunday Baked Ziti:

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 large egg
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Sunday Baked Ziti:

Cook the Ziti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Assemble the Ziti

In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Layer half of the cooked ziti, half of the ricotta mixture, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat with remaining ingredients, finishing with marinara sauce and remaining mozzarella on top.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy your delicious meal!

Enjoy your Sunday Baked Ziti with a fresh green salad and garlic bread!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add cooked ground meat or sautéed vegetables to the layers for extra flavor and texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when baking ziti is having a dry texture due to overcooking the pasta. Make sure to cook your ziti just until al dente, following the package instructions closely. The pasta will absorb some sauce while baking, so it's important to maintain that perfect bite.

If your cheese does not melt beautifully, it might be because of the cheese variety you used. Always choose high-quality mozzarella for that ultimate stretchiness. Avoid low-fat versions, as they often don’t melt as well and can result in a less satisfying texture.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your serving experience, present your Sunday Baked Ziti with a fresh salad or garlic bread on the side. A light arugula salad tossed with olive oil and lemon juice complements the rich flavors excellently. You might also consider a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic reduction over the finished dish for added flair.

For a fun twist, you can serve the baked ziti in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets. This makes for a charming presentation and allows guests to enjoy their portions with crispy edges. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if using smaller dishes, checking for that golden-brown crust.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the ziti a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as a substitute for ricotta if you prefer.

→ 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.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes, you can freeze baked ziti. Just ensure it's fully cooled before wrapping tightly and storing in the freezer for up to 2 months.