Classic Baked Ziti with Ricotta & Mozzarella – Sunday Pasta Dinner

Few dishes speak the language of comfort quite like baked ziti. It’s the kind of meal that appears in the center of the table, steaming and generous, inviting everyone to sit just a little closer. Classic Baked Ziti with Ricotta & Mozzarella is a timeless Sunday pasta dinner — rich, hearty, and deeply rooted in tradition.

This dish has long been a staple in family kitchens, especially on weekends when there’s time to cook slowly and eat together. Baked ziti isn’t fancy, and it doesn’t try to be. Instead, it relies on honest ingredients and careful layering: tender pasta, savory tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella that stretches with every spoonful. Each bite feels familiar, like a recipe passed down through generations, even if you’re making it for the first time.

What makes baked ziti so special is its balance. The sauce brings brightness and warmth, the cheeses add richness, and the pasta holds everything together into a satisfying, comforting whole. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, welcoming guests, or simply enjoying leftovers that taste even better the next day. Whether paired with garlic bread, a green salad, or enjoyed all on its own, this dish has a way of making Sunday dinner feel complete.

Take your time with it. Let the sauce simmer, layer with care, and enjoy the process. This is more than just pasta — it’s a celebration of togetherness, tradition, and the joy of sharing a meal. Let’s begin.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• Water, generously salted

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional, traditional variation)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato paste

For the Cheese Layers:

• 15 oz whole-milk ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

Optional Traditional Additions:

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan for topping

Directions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ziti and cook until just shy of al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside. The pasta will finish cooking in the oven, absorbing the sauce beautifully.
3. While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. If using ground beef or sausage, add it now. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
5. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and well developed in flavor.
6. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. This layer adds richness and structure to the baked ziti.
7. To assemble, spread a thin layer of sauce over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Add half of the cooked ziti, spreading it evenly. Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, followed by one cup of mozzarella and a generous layer of sauce.
8. Repeat with the remaining pasta, ricotta mixture, sauce, and finish with the remaining mozzarella on top. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan if desired.
9. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden on top.
10. Remove from the oven and let the baked ziti rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes slicing easier. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. 🍽️

Notes

• Whole-milk ricotta provides the creamiest texture and most traditional flavor.
• For a meatless version, simply omit the meat and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce.
• If you enjoy a crispier top, broil the dish for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
• Baked ziti can be assembled a day ahead, covered, and refrigerated. Bake just before serving.
• Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat beautifully.

Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 25 minutes | 🔥 Baking Time: 45 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~560 | 🍽️ Servings: 6–8

• Protein: Generous from cheese and optional meat
• Carbohydrates: Comforting and filling from pasta
• Fats: Rich and satisfying, perfect for a Sunday meal

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!