Ultimate Creamy Cheesy Baked Ziti is a comforting dish that combines tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and a generous amount of gooey melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, with layers of creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan that make every bite so satisfying. This baked ziti is hearty enough to fill you up and simple enough to please a crowd.
I love making this recipe when I want something that feels special but doesn’t take all day. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or feeding friends and family without a lot of fuss. One trick I use is to mix a little extra cheese right into the sauce before baking—that way, every bite is cheesy and smooth. Also, letting it rest for a few minutes after coming out of the oven helps the layers set up just right.
My favorite way to serve baked ziti is with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread on the side. It’s a classic combo that always gets everyone asking for seconds. The best part is how the crispy top layer of browned cheese contrasts with the creamy, melted cheese underneath—it’s a total crowd-pleaser and one of those dishes I find myself craving again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ziti Pasta: Using ziti gives this dish its classic shape and texture. If you can’t find ziti, penne is a great swap since it holds sauce well and has a similar bite.
Ground Beef: Ground beef brings hearty flavor, but Italian sausage adds spiciness and depth. For a lighter twist, ground turkey or vegetables like mushrooms work well, too.
Ricotta Cheese: This cheese adds creamy richness inside the layers. If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese or even cream cheese can substitute for a creamy texture, though flavor will differ slightly.
Mozzarella & Parmesan: Mozzarella gives gooey meltiness, and Parmesan adds sharpness. If you want, mix cheddar or provolone with mozzarella for a different cheese blend.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream boosts the creaminess of the sauce, but whole milk is a lighter option. For dairy-free recipes, coconut milk or cashew cream can work.
How Can I Make My Baked Ziti Creamy and Not Dry?
Achieving creamy baked ziti means balancing moisture and cheese. Here’s how:
- Cook pasta al dente: Slightly undercooking the pasta keeps it firm and prevents mushiness after baking.
- Use plenty of ricotta and cream: Mix these into the pasta and sauce so every bite feels smooth and rich.
- Don’t skimp on sauce: Tomato sauce carries moisture and flavor. Toss pasta with sauce before layering.
- Layer cheese thoughtfully: Sprinkle some cheese inside and reserve enough for a bubbly, golden top layer. Cover with foil for most of the bake to prevent cheese drying out, then finish uncovered to brown.
- Rest after baking: Let it sit 5 minutes so sauce thickens a bit, making it easier to serve without falling apart.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta to just the right tenderness.
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking the meat and sautéing onions and garlic together.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the pasta, sauce, and cheeses evenly before baking.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – holds the ziti layers and cheeses, plus it fits nicely in most ovens.
- Aluminum foil – helps keep the cheese from browning too fast while baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to add a little spice and a richer flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and nutrients.
- Mix in some cooked Italian-style chicken meatballs for a fun protein twist.
- Use a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese for a different melt and flavor.
Ultimate Creamy Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ziti pasta (or penne)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage, or a mix)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk for lighter option)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious baked ziti takes about 15 minutes to prepare, 35 minutes to bake, and a 5-minute rest before serving, for a total of around 55 minutes. Easy and worth every minute!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep and Cook Pasta:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta until just al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than the package says. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Meat Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain extra fat if needed. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer 5 minutes for flavors to blend.
3. Combine Pasta and Cheese Mixture:
In a big bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the meat sauce, ricotta cheese, heavy cream, half the mozzarella, and half the Parmesan. Gently stir to coat everything well and create a creamy mixture.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Spread half the pasta mixture evenly into your baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over this layer. Top with the remaining pasta mixture and then spread the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Cover the dish with foil.
Bake covered for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top and serve warm. This baked ziti pairs perfectly with a green salad and garlic bread for a full, hearty meal everyone will love.
Can I Use Frozen Meat for the Sauce?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the ground beef or sausage before cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave to ensure even cooking.
Can I Make Baked Ziti Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Definitely! Feel free to substitute or add cheeses like provolone, fontina, or cheddar for varied flavor and meltiness. Just keep mozzarella for that classic gooey texture.
