When it comes to comfort food, nothing holds a candle to a hearty pan of cheesy baked ziti. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Over the years, I’ve crafted this recipe to highlight simplicity and flavor, allowing the gooey cheese and rich marinara to shine through. With its warm, inviting aroma wafting through your home, this dish is sure to make everyone feel at ease.
Why you’ll love this dish
This cheesy baked ziti brings together the best of Italian-American comfort food in one easy-to-make casserole. What makes it special? First, it’s budget-friendly and uses everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Second, it’s a tremendous time saver for busy weeknights or even special occasions, taking just under an hour from prep to table. Plus, it’s kid-approved—what’s not to love about gooey cheese and pasta?
"This baked ziti is a family favorite! It’s creamy, cheesy, and so delicious. I can’t believe how easy it is to make!" – Sarah T.
Preparing Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
This dish comes together through a straightforward process where each layer builds upon the last, ensuring every bite is filled with pasta, sauce, and cheese. You’ll start by cooking the pasta, then sautéing the sausage with onions and garlic to create a flavor-packed base. Next, you’ll mix everything together with marinara sauce and layer it in a baking dish with dollops of creamy ricotta. Finally, top it with mozzarella for that perfectly melted finish.
What you’ll need
Gather the following ingredients to create this cheesy masterpiece:
- 1 (1-pound) box ziti (you can also use rigati or penne)
- 1 tablespoon salt (for the pasta water)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound bulk Italian sausage
- 2 (24-ounce) jars marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (15-ounce) container whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 (8-ounce) package shredded mozzarella cheese
Feel free to substitute ground turkey for the sausage or opt for vegan cheese if you’re catering to dietary preferences.
