Cheesy Baked Ziti
A classic, comforting, and crowd-pleasing pasta bake perfect for meal prepping.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- 1/2 lb cooked sausage or sautéed veggies
*Ingredient costs are estimated based on bulk purchasing and typical grocery prices.
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook ziti according to package directions until al dente (slightly firm). Drain and set aside.
- Make Meat Sauce (Optional): In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground meat (if using) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Simmer Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for at least 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. If not using meat, simply simmer the sauce ingredients together.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg (if using), 1 cup mozzarella, and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Stir in fresh parsley (if using). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Assemble: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish 9x13 inch, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, then dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the pasta. Top with another layer of sauce. Repeat with remaining ziti and sauce. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Clever Tip
Make two batches and freeze one unbaked to have a homemade dinner ready for a busy weeknight in the future!
Meal Prep & Freezing Tips
- Refrigeration: Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
- Freezing (Unbaked): Assemble the ziti in a freezer-safe aluminum pan. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. You can also bake directly from frozen (covered), but it will take about 60-75 minutes, then uncover for the last 15 minutes.
- Freezing (Baked): Once baked and cooled, cut into individual portions and freeze in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the microwave or oven.