Baked Ziti II

Why You’ll Love Baked Ziti II Recipe

This recipe brings together comfort and flavor in one dish. You’ll love it because the layers of cheese and sauce create a satisfying, hearty texture and rich taste. It’s a crowd‑pleaser that makes great leftovers and works well whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 (16 ounce) package ziti pasta

• 24 ounces ricotta cheese

• 1 pound shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1 (32‑ounce) jar spaghetti sauce

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13‑inch baking dish.

2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain and rinse.

3. In a medium bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, beaten egg, and 1½ cups of the spaghetti sauce.

4. Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining spaghetti sauce, then sprinkle with the grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Let stand for 15 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.

• Prep time: ~15 minutes

• Cook time: ~30 minutes

• Additional standing time: ~15 minutes

• Total time: ~1 hour

Variations

• Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or turkey for a meat‑lover’s version.

• Mix in sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrients.

• Use a garlic‑herb marinara sauce to enhance the depth of flavor.

• Substitute half the mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a richer cheese blend.

• Add red pepper flakes or chopped pepperoncini for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3‑4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15‑20 minutes, covering with foil if needed to prevent overbrowning. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though oven reheating keeps the texture better.

FAQs

What does “baked ziti” mean?

“Baked ziti” refers to a pasta dish where ziti is mixed with cheese and sauce, then baked until the top is golden and the flavors meld beautifully.

Can I use a different pasta shape instead of ziti?

Yes — rigatoni, penne, or other similarly sized tubular pastas can be used as alternatives.

Do I need to precook the pasta?

Yes, the ziti should be cooked to al dente before baking to ensure the best texture after baking.

Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely. After baking and cooling, wrap tightly and freeze. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F until heated through, about 45–60 minutes.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, the standard version is vegetarian. Just ensure the sauce doesn’t contain meat-based ingredients.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese (blended for smoothness) or a combination of cream cheese and sour cream can be used as a substitute.

How can I get a crispy top on the dish?

Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking to achieve a golden, slightly crisp top. Watch it closely to avoid burning.

Can I make a lighter version with less cheese?

Yes, use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella, and reduce the quantities slightly. A light marinara sauce also helps lower the fat content.

What sides go well with baked ziti?

A green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables pair perfectly with this hearty dish.

Conclusion

This Baked Ziti II recipe delivers everything you want in a cozy, flavorful baked pasta: tender noodles, creamy cheese, savory sauce, and a golden top. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for leftovers. Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner party, this dish always satisfies.