Sunday Baked Ziti

Name: Sunday Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 pound ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Sunday Baked Ziti because it’s a comforting dish that brings my family together. With layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s hard to resist. This recipe is perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd, making it a staple in our household. I appreciate how easy it is to prepare—throw everything together, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this baked ziti is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-06T09:49:14.097Z

One of the things I enjoy most about making Sunday Baked Ziti is how easy it becomes to customize. I often experiment with different cheeses or add ground turkey or vegetables for extra nutrition. Recently, I incorporated some spinach, which not only added color but also a fresh taste that balanced out the rich sauce so well.

Another thing I learned is to let the ziti rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve and enjoy. Trust me, the wait is worth it when you see everyone dive into this delicious meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Layers of cheesy goodness that melt in your mouth
Hearty pasta dish perfect for a family dinner
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients

      

Perfect Pasta Consistency

Cooking the ziti to the perfect al dente stage is crucial for this dish. An al dente texture ensures that the pasta holds up well during baking and doesn’t become overly soft or mushy. Follow the package instructions closely, but start checking the pasta a minute or two before the recommended cooking time. The pasta should have a slight bite to it, as it will continue to cook in the oven. If undercooked, you risk a pasta dish that becomes a gooey mess instead of a layered delight.

It's also worth noting the importance of reserving a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be added to your marinara sauce if it seems too thick for coating. The extra moisture will bind all the layers together beautifully while enhancing flavor without overly watering down your dish.

Cheese Mixture Magic

The cheese mixture is the heart of your baked ziti. Ricotta cheese adds a creamy texture and richness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy marinara. To elevate the flavor, consider mixing in a pinch of nutmeg alongside the garlic powder. This subtle note can brighten the cheese's taste, enhancing the overall profile of the dish. Be sure to mix the ingredients until smooth for an even distribution in each layer, ensuring that every bite is packed with cheesy goodness.

If you're looking to lighten up the recipe, part-skim ricotta and low-fat mozzarella are excellent substitutes without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, for a dairy-free version, swapping in cashew cheese or a plant-based ricotta can keep the dish creamy while catering to dietary preferences.

Layering for Flavor

Layering is not just about aesthetics; it significantly impacts flavor and texture. Start with a base of marinara to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the dish. As you layer, aim for an even distribution to ensure consistent flavor throughout. Instead of just a single layer of mozzarella, consider adding small dollops of marinara in between layers to keep moisture throughout the dish, resulting in a wonderfully gooey and cheesy experience that holds well on a plate.

When it comes to baking, keeping the dish covered with foil during the first 25 minutes helps steam the pasta without drying it out. For the final 15 minutes uncovered, watch for a bubbling and golden top—this visual cue indicates the cheese is perfectly melted and ready to enjoy. If you prefer a crispier top, turn on the broiler for the last couple of minutes but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Sunday Baked Ziti:

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect baked ziti:

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Layer the Ingredients

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

Bake the Ziti

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the baked ziti rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Pro Tips

For a deeper flavor, try using homemade marinara sauce or adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the layers.

Make-Ahead Tips

Baked ziti is a fantastic make-ahead meal that can save you time during a busy week. Prepare the entire dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the original baking time—just ensure the center is hot before serving.

If you're planning for longer storage, consider freezing the assembled but unbaked ziti. Wrap it well in foil after preparing and it can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to soak up all that delicious marinara sauce. Adding a light, fresh green vegetable balances the richness of the cheese and pasta. Consider preparing a classic Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for contrast.

For an added touch, sprinkle extra fresh basil or a bit of crushed red pepper over the top just before serving to enhance the visual appeal and provide additional flavor. This little finishing touch can elevate your baked ziti from simple comfort food to a dish worthy of dinner guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ziti and store it in the fridge before baking, allowing the flavors to meld together.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to experiment with provolone, fontina, or even goat cheese for added flavor.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! Just make sure to wrap it tightly before freezing. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.