Name: Cheesy Baked Ziti Delight Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp. Olive oil; 1 Onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup); 3 Cloves Garlic, minced; 5 Cups Marinara sauce (about 46 ounces); 1–2 teaspoons Sea salt; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 lb. Dried Ziti (or penne pasta); 1 Cup Whole milk ricotta cheese; 1 Large Egg; ½ Cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 8 ounces Mozzarella cheese; 8–12 slices Provolone cheese (from the deli counter)

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever craved the hug of Italian comfort food, baked ziti is your answer. Rich, cheesy, and bubbling straight from the oven, this recipe comes together with just a handful of classic ingredients, but the results are pure magic. Every layer is infused with flavor thanks to the marinara, creamy ricotta, and a blend of indulgent cheeses. For the perfect start (and the most important trick for easy serving and better browning), you’ll want to pour a tablespoon or two of olive oil into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it evenly—trust me, it’s a step you’ll never skip again.

Pour a tablespoon or two of olive oil into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it evenly Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of baked ziti lies in its beautiful simplicity—the ingredients are familiar, accessible, and each one brings depth and character to the dish. Don’t skimp on the cheese or the seasoning; they make every bite sing!

Olive oil: Adds silkiness and helps prevent sticking; pour a tablespoon or two into your 9×13-inch dish for best results!
Onion: Offers a gentle sweetness and aroma that lifts the sauce.
Garlic: Essential for real Italian flavor—don’t be shy!
Marinara sauce: The soulful base that soaks the pasta and brings everything together.
Sea salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that highlight all the other flavors.
Dried Ziti or Penne pasta: These tubular shapes hold sauce like a dream and create that classic ziti texture.
Whole milk ricotta cheese: Adds creamy richness to each bite—don’t substitute for low-fat if you want full flavor.
Egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture and gives structure to the layers.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best; it adds sharpness and an irresistible golden finish.
Mozzarella cheese: Brings that melty, stretchy, gooey goodness baked ziti is famous for.
Provolone cheese slices: Lends a dramatic, extra layer of savory melty magic—ask for these at the deli counter!

How to Make Cheesy Baked Ziti Delight

Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding two tablespoons of olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in the finely chopped onion and cook for a minute or two, just until softened and fragrant. Add the garlic next, seasoning liberally with salt and pepper; this is where your kitchen starts to smell amazing!

Step 2: Warm the Marinara Sauce

Pour in the marinara sauce and let it heat through, stirring occasionally. The sauce should bubble gently, absorbing all the aromatic goodness from the onion and garlic. This step sets a deep, savory flavor base for your baked ziti.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid simmer (not a rolling boil). Add your ziti or penne and cook, stirring now and then, until just al dente—about 6 minutes. You want a slight bite left to avoid mushiness after baking.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

Mix the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, and a tiny sprinkle of sugar (if you like a hint of sweetness) in a small bowl. This creamy mixture will be dolloped between layers, adding delicious richness and body to every bite.

Step 5: Cheesy Baked Ziti Delight

This step is pure gold! Pour a tablespoon or two of olive oil into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it evenly using a brush or paper towel. This little ritual keeps the pasta from sticking, adds lovely flavor, and even helps the bottom get just the tiniest bit crisp and golden.

Step 6: Assemble the Layers

Drain the freshly cooked pasta and spoon half of it into your prepared baking dish. Pour half of your rich, steaming sauce over the pasta and stir gently to combine. Dollop on half of the ricotta mixture, then layer 4 to 6 slices of provolone and scatter on half the mozzarella. Repeat with the remaining pasta, sauce, ricotta, provolone, and mozzarella, making sure everything is tucked in saucily and generously.

Step 7: Finish and Bake

Top off the whole thing with a generous shower of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Slide it into the oven at 375°F uncovered for about 30 minutes. If you’re as obsessed with crispy cheese as I am, run it under the broiler for a few extra minutes at the end—just until the top is golden and bubbling with irresistible flavor.

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Ziti Delight

Garnishes

Finish your baked ziti with a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley for a bright, herby touch. A light drizzle of olive oil across the hot, cheesy top—yes, even after you pour a tablespoon or two of olive oil into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it evenly—adds an aromatic flourish that really makes this dish shine.

Side Dishes

Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or oven-roasted garlic bread for extra crunch. Both options lighten up the richness of the casserole and give your meal that perfect Italian family dinner vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping presentation, serve your baked ziti straight from the baking dish you so thoughtfully prepared (remember to pour a tablespoon or two of olive oil into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it evenly!). Or try scooping individual portions into mini cast iron skillets or ramekins for a charming, personalized touch at fancy dinner parties or holiday gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the baked ziti to cool to room temperature, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days, and in my experience, the flavors deepen and get even better overnight.

Freezing

This baked ziti is a champion freezer meal. Assemble completely (but don’t bake), wrap tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, simply scoop portions into a smaller baking dish or microwave-safe container. For best results in the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until hot and melty. Don’t forget—before reheating in the oven, pour a tablespoon or two of olive oil into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it evenly to keep things extra moist and flavorful!

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or even rotini work beautifully in place of ziti. Just aim for something that holds sauce well—nothing too thin or tiny.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this classic version is already vegetarian. If you like, you can even add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor.

What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese can be used as a substitute, though the texture will be slightly lighter. For an even creamier twist, blend cottage cheese until smooth before mixing with the egg and Parmesan.

How can I prevent the baked ziti from drying out?

Be generous with your marinara sauce and remember to pour a tablespoon or two of olive oil into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it evenly. Covering with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking also helps keep things moist.

Can this be assembled in advance?

Yes! Assemble the entire dish (don’t bake), cover tightly, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Pour a tablespoon or two of olive oil into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it evenly before layering everything to guarantee nothing sticks, even if it sits overnight.

Final Thoughts

There’s something about homemade baked ziti that invites people in and keeps them gathered around the table. Once you try this method, starting with that crucial step—pour a tablespoon or two of olive oil into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it evenly—you’ll realize it’s the tiny details that transform a good meal into a truly unforgettable one. Gather your favorite people and give this recipe a try: I promise it’ll earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation!

Cheesy Baked Ziti Delight Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 29 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make a life-changing baked ziti that is sure to impress your family and friends. This hearty and delicious baked pasta dish is perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the onion for 1-2 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
Heat Sauce: Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and heat until hot.
Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, add the pasta to rapidly simmering (not boiling) water. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 6 minutes, or until al dente with a slight bite left.
Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of sugar if desired.
Prepare Baking Dish: Pour a tablespoon or two of olive oil into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it evenly.
Assemble Dish: Drain the pasta and pour half into the prepared baking dish. Add half of the sauce and stir to combine. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese mixture on top. Add 4-6 slices of provolone cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese.
Layer Again: Repeat with the remaining pasta, sauce, ricotta cheese, and cheeses, ensuring all the pasta is thoroughly covered in sauce.
Bake: Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. For a crispy, bubbly top, place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes at the end.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian