Save to Pinterest A comforting, budget-friendly pasta bake featuring tender ziti, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese baked together in just one pan for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
This one-pan baked ziti became a favorite in my house for busy weeknights; everyone loves how cheesy and satisfying it is without any fuss. I especially enjoy tossing it in the oven and relaxing while it bakes to golden perfection.
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
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Prepare Aromatics:
- In a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and saute 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
- Bake Covered:
- 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, stir gently. Dollop ricotta cheese over the top, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan
- Finish Baking:
- 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 to Pinterest This cheesy ziti is always a hit at our family gatherings, especially when my kids get to sprinkle on the final layer of mozzarella. It brings everyone around the table for seconds.
Required Tools
Large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, aluminum foil or oven-safe lid, measuring cups and spoons, wooden spoon or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and dairy (cheese). Check sauce and cheese labels for hidden allergens if needed.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: calories 495, total fat 18 g, carbohydrates 63 g, protein 21 g.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy the gooey, cheesy ziti hot from the oven—it is perfect for sharing and reheats beautifully for leftovers.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ziti with other pasta?
Yes, penne or rigatoni are great alternatives that hold sauce well and bake evenly.
- → How do I achieve a crispier cheese topping?
Broil the dish for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking until the cheese forms a golden crust.
- → Can I add protein or vegetables?
Cooked Italian sausage or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can be added before baking for extra flavor and nutrition.
- → What herbs complement this baked ziti?
Italian herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme enhance the sauce's depth and aroma.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, it contains no meat and is rich with cheeses and herbs, ideal for a vegetarian meal.