Sunday Baked Ziti

Name: Sunday Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 15 ounces ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love whipping up a comforting dish of Sunday Baked Ziti on lazy weekends. The aromas wafting through my kitchen as it bakes are simply irresistible! This recipe combines al dente pasta with a homemade marinara sauce, rich cheeses, and Italian herbs for a flavor explosion in every bite. It’s an effortless yet impressive meal that can feed a crowd, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers. Plus, the leftovers, if there are any, are just as delicious the next day!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:40:07.293Z

Baking has always been my favorite way to develop flavors, and with this Sunday Baked Ziti, I discovered how layering different cheeses creates a delightful texture. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan not only enhances the creaminess but also provides a golden crust that is irresistible. When I first made this dish for my friends, they couldn't get enough of it, claiming it was the best ziti they had ever tasted!

I also found that letting the baked ziti rest for about 10 minutes after coming out of the oven was a game-changer. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes it easier to serve, ensuring each slice holds its shape perfectly. It's truly a dish that brings everyone together around the table, sharing laughter and deliciousness.

        Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
        Heartwarming, cheesy goodness that warms the soul
Versatile: customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins
Creates a fantastic aroma that fills the house

      

Perfecting Your Marinara Sauce

The marinara sauce is the heart of this baked ziti, and using quality crushed tomatoes can elevate the dish significantly. I recommend opting for San Marzano tomatoes if you can find them, as they have a sweeter, richer flavor. When simmering the sauce, keep an eye on the consistency; it should be thick but still pourable. If it seems too watery, let it simmer a bit longer to allow excess liquid to evaporate, intensifying the flavor.

Don’t hesitate to customize your sauce! Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an aromatic boost. A splash of red wine can also enhance depth, bringing out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. If you love a little spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can provide a gentle kick that complements the richness of the cheese.

Cheese Choices and Layering Tips

While this recipe calls for ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, you have the flexibility to mix and match your cheeses based on preference. For a creamier texture, you could substitute mascarpone for some of the ricotta. Alternatively, adding a sharp cheese, such as provolone or fontina, can introduce interesting flavors that contrast beautifully with the milder cheeses.

When assembling the ziti, layering is key to ensuring even distribution of flavors. After adding half the pasta mixture to the baking dish, be sure to sprinkle the cheese evenly to allow it to melt and combine with all layers. I recommend using your hands to gently press down the layers as you build them. This will help the baked ziti hold together better upon serving.

Ingredients

For the Baked Ziti

1 pound ziti pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 large egg
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Steps

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 10 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the mozzarella. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce and cheese mixture, mixing well.

Assemble the Ziti

In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture. Sprinkle with half of the remaining mozzarella and half of the Parmesan. Add the rest of the pasta and top with the remaining cheeses.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled ziti for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Serve

Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sprinkling red pepper flakes into the sauce or adding sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms before baking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to prepare your Sunday Baked Ziti ahead of time, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge, uncover, and bake at 375°F for about 35-40 minutes, since it will need extra time to heat through completely.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ziti in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes. If you want to revive some of its freshness, add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil before covering.

Serving Suggestions

To complement your baked ziti, consider serving a simple mixed green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the greens provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta. Crusty garlic bread also makes for an excellent side, perfect for sopping up any remaining sauce.

For an added touch, you can serve the ziti in individual ramekins for a more personalized presentation at gatherings. Topping each portion with a sprinkle of fresh basil just before serving adds a pop of color and flavor that ties everything together beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ziti a day ahead. Just assemble it, cover with foil, and refrigerate. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Let the baked ziti cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a cream cheese mixture if you prefer a different taste or texture.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes! Omit any meat from your sauce or incorporate vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to enhance the dish.