Quick Comfort Food Baked Ziti

Name: Quick Comfort Food Baked Ziti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Favorite Comfort Food Collection

I love making Quick Comfort Food Baked Ziti when I need a quick meal that still feels like a warm hug. This dish strikes the perfect balance between cheesy, flavorful, and satisfying. With layers of ziti pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s everything you want in comfort food, and it comes together in just about 30 minutes! This recipe has become a family favorite, and I’m excited to share how easily it can be prepared on a busy weeknight.

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-02-15T03:17:36.661Z

When I first tried making baked ziti, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such a hearty dish. The secret is in the sauce; I always opt for a homemade marinara or a quality store-bought option that helps enhance the flavors without extra effort. It's all about layering the ingredients to achieve that perfect cheesy pull with every forkful.

Last week, I experimented by adding some sautéed spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. It turned out wonderfully! Not only did it add a vibrant touch, but it also brought a delightful freshness to the dish that complemented the richness beautifully. Trust me, it’s an easy way to sneak in some greens!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Cheesy goodness that satisfies every pasta lover
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins

Understanding Ingredients

The choice of pasta is essential for your Quick Comfort Food Baked Ziti. Ziti, with its tubular shape, holds onto the sauce and cheese perfectly, ensuring every bite is flavorful. If ziti isn't available, you can substitute it with penne or rigatoni. These alternatives yield similar textures and allow the cheesy goodness to cling beautifully.

Ricotta cheese plays a vital role in contributing creaminess and a rich flavor profile. The garlic powder and Italian seasoning enhance this base, giving it that comforting Italian flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, consider substituting part of the ricotta with cottage cheese for a different texture without sacrificing richness.

Baking Techniques

Baking the ziti with foil initially prevents the dish from drying out, preserving the moisture and ensuring that the cheese melts evenly. The final uncovered baking phase is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown top. Keep a close eye on it; if the cheese begins to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it again with foil to prevent burning.

Letting the baked ziti rest for a few minutes before serving allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve. This resting time can help those gooey layers meld together better, enhancing the overall texture when you dig in.

Serving Suggestions

This baked ziti can be served as a hearty main dish, but pairing it with a fresh side salad can balance out the meal wonderfully. A simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar complements the richness of the ziti. You might also add some crusty garlic bread, enhancing the indulgent experience.

Considering variations? You can sneak in vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers by mixing them into the pasta layers. Sauté them beforehand to reduce moisture, which helps maintain the desired texture. For a protein boost, adding cooked ground beef, sausage, or a plant-based alternative can turn this into an even more satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious baked ziti.

Ingredients

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

Make sure all ingredients are ready for assembly!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your baked ziti masterpiece.

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy.

Assemble the Ziti

In a large baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, followed by half of the cooked ziti. Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the ziti, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers. Finish with remaining marinara and mozzarella on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and add grated Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade baked ziti!

Enjoy this delightful dish with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add cooked ground beef or turkey for extra protein, or toss in your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor!

Make-Ahead Options

To save time, you can prepare the baked ziti in advance. After assembling all layers in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking. Adjust baking time as needed, adding a few extra minutes for colder ingredients.

You can also freeze the assembled ziti for later enjoyment. To freeze, wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake directly from the fridge, increasing the time as needed.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your baked ziti ends up too watery, it might be due to the marinara sauce or extra moisture from added vegetables. To avoid this, consider using a thicker marinara sauce or reducing your sauce on the stove before layering. Another option is to let the baked ziti sit longer after baking to help absorb excess moisture.

Conversely, if your ziti comes out too dry, ensure you’re covering the dish with foil for the initial baking phase. If you notice it’s drying out, consider adding a splash of water or sauce to the dish before returning it to the oven. This can help steam your ziti and keep it deliciously moist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the baked ziti in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the baked ziti ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cool it completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a dairy-free ricotta if you prefer. Just ensure it's a similar texture when mixing.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit any meats and add more vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach to keep it hearty and satisfying!