Baked Ziti Recipe

Cook pasta

Preheat a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 lb ziti and cook until very al dente (about 2 minutes less than package directions, typically 7–8 minutes). Drain thoroughly and toss immediately with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Prepare cheese mixture

In a large bowl combine 2 cups ricotta, 1 cup grated Parmesan, 2 cups shredded mozzarella (reserve 1 cup for topping), 1 whole egg, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp black pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Sauté aromatics

Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5–7 minutes. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant, stirring so garlic doesn't brown.

Brown the meat

Add 1 lb ground beef (or sausage) to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary, leaving a little for flavor.

Simmer sauce

Stir in 28 oz crushed tomatoes and 2 tbsp tomato paste. Add 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1 tsp red pepper flakes, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper and 1 tsp sugar (optional). Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (if using) at the end. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Combine pasta with sauce and cheese

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a 9x13-inch baking dish. In a very large bowl, combine the drained ziti with about 3 cups of the meat sauce (reserve roughly 1 cup for the bottom of the dish and some for serving). Fold the pasta with the sauce until evenly coated. Add the ricotta/cheese mixture and gently fold until distributed, leaving some pockets of sauce and cheese for texture. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of reserved sauce or a few tablespoons of pasta cooking water.

Layer in dish

Spread about 1/2 to 1 cup of sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Transfer the pasta + cheese mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Top with the reserved 1 cup shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil (spray or tent foil so it doesn't stick to cheese) and bake in the preheated 375°F oven for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until cheese on top is melted and bubbling and edges are lightly browned.

Rest and serve

Let the baked ziti rest 8–10 minutes before serving to set. Garnish with additional chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve with extra sauce on the side.