Sunday Baked Ziti

Name: Sunday Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Sunday Baked Ziti for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. This hearty dish is loaded with pasta, marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese that brings everyone together around the table. The best part is that it's simple to whip up and can be made in advance, making it a perfect choice for busy weekends. Every bite feels comforting and warm, reminding me of family traditions and cherished moments spent together over delicious food.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:25:13.640Z

When I first tried Sunday Baked Ziti, I was captivated by how the flavors melded together for a rich, comforting dish. I've experimented with different cheeses and sauces, and I found that a mix of mozzarella and ricotta really elevates the texture. The key to making it unforgettable is letting it bake until bubbly and golden on top.

I've discovered that adding a sprinkle of Italian herbs not only enhances the aroma but also infuses each layer with robust flavor. Pairing it with a fresh salad and crusty bread truly makes it a complete meal that my family looks forward to every Sunday.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Comforting layers of cheesy goodness that make every bite satisfying
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients
A dish that brings family and friends together for a joyful meal

      

The Importance of Cooking Pasta Al Dente

Cooking the ziti pasta to al dente is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your baked ziti. Al dente means that the pasta should be firm to the bite, not overly soft. This ensures that it holds up during baking and absorbs just the right amount of sauce without becoming mushy. Aim to cook the pasta for about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest to achieve this ideal state.

To check for doneness, taste a piece of pasta a minute before the timer goes off. It should have a slight chewiness yet not feel raw. If it’s cooked perfectly, your baked ziti will have the right bite, complementing the creaminess of the cheese and heartiness of the sauce.

Enhancing Flavor with Cheese Mixtures

The blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses not only adds rich flavors but also ensures a creamy texture throughout the dish. Ricotta contributes silkiness, while mozzarella offers that coveted gooey stretch. Parmesan provides a sharp, nutty flavor to elevate the overall taste. When mixing, be sure to use room-temperature cheeses; this helps them blend more easily and creates a smoother texture without lumps.

If you're looking for an alternative or want to try something unique, you can switch ricotta for cottage cheese or even goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just remember that using different cheeses can alter the flavor profile of your baked ziti, so choose according to your preference!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious Sunday Baked Ziti:

Ingredients

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

Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Sunday Baked Ziti:

Cook the Ziti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Mix the Cheeses

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Layer the Ingredients

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

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Serve

Allow the baked ziti to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Enjoy your meal with a side salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables or cooked Italian sausage to the layers.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Baked ziti is an excellent dish for meal prep! You can assemble it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding about 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through properly.

If you want to make it even further ahead, consider freezing the unbaked dish. It can be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe dish and wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. To cook from frozen, bake at 375°F for approximately 60-75 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Dish

Baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a fresh touch, serve it alongside a Caesar salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to contrast the rich pasta. Additionally, a sprinkle of chili flakes on top before serving can add a delightful kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Don’t forget about the finishing touches; a sprinkle of fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also imparts a wonderful aroma. You can also consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving for an extra layer of flavor. These small additions can take your baked ziti from cozy comfort food to a restaurant-worthy dish!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ziti a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bake it straight from the fridge, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! Baked ziti can be frozen before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

→ What can I serve with baked ziti?

Baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes, whole wheat ziti works well in this recipe and adds extra fiber.