Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Ground Beef: Easy and Cheesy Recipe

There’s something universally comforting about baked pasta, isn’t there? It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, no matter what kind of day they’ve had. And when you talk about baked pasta, it’s hard not to immediately think of cheesy baked ziti. This classic dish is a weeknight warrior, a weekend treat, and a potluck superstar all rolled into one bubbly, golden-brown casserole. With its rich layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy ricotta, it manages to hit every comfort food note without feeling too heavy or too fussy.

I still remember the first time I made baked ziti from scratch. It was one of those chilly autumn evenings when all you want is something warm and filling that makes your kitchen smell amazing. I had a pound of ground beef in the fridge, a jar of marinara in the pantry, and a block of mozzarella begging to be shredded. I didn’t have a recipe, just a vision of what it should taste like—something cheesy, saucy, and satisfying. What came out of the oven was exactly that, and ever since then, it’s become a staple in our home.

What makes this baked ziti recipe so special is how simple it is to put together while still delivering big, bold flavors. The ricotta adds a creamy, almost luxurious texture to each bite, while the mozzarella melts into those gorgeous golden strands on top. Parmesan gives the whole dish a salty, umami-rich finish, and the beefy marinara sauce brings everything together in the best possible way. It’s one of those dishes that you can throw together on a Tuesday night but still feel proud serving at a family dinner on Sunday.

This baked ziti is also incredibly adaptable. Whether you’re using ziti, penne, or rigatoni, the pasta does a great job of holding onto the sauce and cheese. And if you’ve got picky eaters at home or dietary preferences to consider, there are easy substitutions and variations you can make without sacrificing any of the flavor. So if you’re looking for a dish that’s hearty, cheesy, family-friendly, and totally satisfying, you’ve come to the right place.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Ziti  Recipe

There are a lot of pasta bakes out there, but this cheesy baked ziti stands out for all the right reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make, even if you’re not particularly confident in the kitchen. You don’t need any fancy techniques or specialty ingredients—just a few everyday staples and a bit of layering know-how.

One of the main reasons people love this recipe is its unbeatable flavor. The combination of tender pasta, well-seasoned ground beef, and rich marinara sauce creates a deeply savory base that’s hard to resist. Then you’ve got the ricotta cheese, which adds a smooth, creamy contrast that makes every bite feel indulgent without being overwhelming. When everything is topped off with mozzarella and Parmesan, baked to golden perfection, the result is pure comfort.

This dish is also incredibly family-friendly. It’s got all the kid-approved elements—cheese, pasta, and a mild red sauce—while still being hearty enough to satisfy the grown-ups. You can prepare it ahead of time, freeze leftovers, and even reheat it without losing that fresh-from-the-oven magic. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Another reason this recipe is a winner? It’s customizable. Want to make it vegetarian? You can swap the beef for sautéed mushrooms or lentils. Looking to sneak in more veggies? Add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce. Craving a spicier version? A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes does the trick. The core flavors are strong enough to hold up to whatever tweaks you need to make.

Most importantly, this baked ziti is one of those dishes that people remember. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, taking it to a friend who just had a baby, or bringing it to a holiday potluck, it always hits the mark. The smell alone—cheesy, garlicky, and just slightly sweet from the tomato sauce—is enough to make your mouth water. And the taste? Well, let’s just say there won’t be many leftovers.

Health Benefits of this Cheesy Baked Ziti

While cheesy baked ziti is undoubtedly a comfort food classic, it can also be a balanced and nutritious meal when prepared with a few thoughtful choices. Let’s start with the protein. Ground beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which helps support muscle repair, hormone function, and overall cellular health. Opting for lean ground beef can also reduce the saturated fat content without sacrificing flavor.

Ricotta cheese, often underestimated, brings more than just creamy texture to the dish. It’s rich in calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. Ricotta also contains a good amount of protein and vitamins like B12 and riboflavin. When paired with mozzarella and Parmesan, you get a calcium-rich trio that adds both taste and nutritional value.

Pasta, often unfairly criticized in health circles, provides a steady source of energy thanks to its complex carbohydrates. Choosing whole wheat pasta can boost the fiber content significantly, which aids in digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer. Even standard semolina pasta still offers iron and B vitamins, which are crucial for maintaining energy levels and supporting your metabolism.

Then there’s the marinara sauce, a true powerhouse in this recipe. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a potent antioxidant linked to reduced risks of heart disease and certain types of cancer. Marinara also contains vitamin C, potassium, and folate, especially when made from high-quality canned or fresh tomatoes.

The garlic and onion in the recipe aren’t just there for flavor either. Both contain compounds like allicin and quercetin that have been studied for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Olive oil, used for sautéing, adds healthy monounsaturated fats, which support heart health and help absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the dish.

So while baked ziti may feel like an indulgence, it’s actually full of ingredients that support your health in meaningful ways. By being mindful of portion sizes, choosing lean protein and whole grain pasta, and adding extra veggies if desired, this dish can easily fit into a balanced lifestyle without sacrificing any of the comforting, cheesy goodness you’re craving.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

One of the best things about this cheesy baked ziti is that it comes together relatively quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests. Here’s what to expect in terms of timing, servings, and nutritional breakdown:

Total Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Servings
This recipe makes 6 generous servings. It’s perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week. You can also double it easily for a crowd or to freeze half for later.

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: Approximately 540
Protein: 30 grams
Carbohydrates: 40 grams
Fat: 28 grams
Fiber: 4 grams
Calcium: 25% of the daily recommended intake
Iron: 20% of the daily recommended intake
Sodium: 680 mg

Keep in mind that these numbers are approximate and can vary depending on the exact brands and quantities used. For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cheese slightly or use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella. Swapping in whole grain pasta or adding vegetables can also increase the fiber and micronutrient content.

Ingredients List of this baked ziti with ricotta

To make this cheesy baked ziti, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Pasta

• 1 pound (450g) ziti pasta (penne or rigatoni can also be used)
  Why it matters: These tubular shapes trap the sauce and cheese perfectly, creating the ideal bite.

Protein and Base

• 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef
  Why it matters: Adds richness, protein, and that classic meat sauce flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  Why it matters: Used to sauté the aromatics, it adds a healthy fat base and helps develop flavor.

Aromatics

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  Why they matter: These build the base flavor of your sauce and bring depth to the dish.

Sauce

• 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  Why it matters: The heart of the dish, it brings moisture, tang, and balances the richness of the cheese.

Cheese Layer

• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
  Why they matter: These create the signature creamy, gooey texture and tangy flavor that defines baked ziti.

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
  Why they matter: These classic Italian herbs enhance the flavor of the sauce and meat mixture.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to make a dish that’s both deeply satisfying and surprisingly easy to prepare. Each component plays a role in creating layers of flavor and texture that come together in every forkful.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions of this baked ziti with ricotta

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking. These step-by-step instructions will walk you through the process from boiling the pasta to pulling that golden, bubbly tray of cheesy baked ziti out of the oven. Let’s make it happen.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti (or penne/rigatoni) and cook until just al dente—usually about 1 to 2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. You want the pasta to be slightly firm because it will continue cooking in the oven.

Drain the pasta and toss it with a tiny drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned with no pink remaining.

Once cooked, drain off any excess fat if needed. This step helps keep the finished dish from becoming greasy while allowing the flavors to remain rich and balanced.

Step 4: Add the Marinara and Spices

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, and basil. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed—add more salt, pepper, or herbs to match your preference.

Let the sauce simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together while you prep the cheese layer.

Step 5: Mix the Ricotta Cheese Blend

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup of the grated Parmesan. Add a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper for extra flavor.

If you want to elevate the filling even more, you can stir in a tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or basil at this stage. It gives the ricotta mixture a pop of color and a fresh herbal note.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick cooking spray. This will keep the ziti from sticking to the pan and help the edges crisp up nicely.

Step 7: Layer the Ingredients

Now it’s time for the fun part—assembling all the delicious layers.

Layer 1: Spoon about 1/3 of the meat sauce into the bottom of the baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
Layer 2: Add half of the cooked ziti pasta on top of the sauce layer.
Layer 3: Dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta. You don’t have to spread it perfectly; the cheese will melt and spread as it bakes.
Layer 4: Spoon another third of the meat sauce over the ricotta.
Layer 5: Add the remaining pasta.
Layer 6: Add the rest of the ricotta cheese mixture.
Layer 7: Finish with the remaining meat sauce, then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

If you love that ultra-golden, bubbly top layer, feel free to add a few extra tablespoons of cheese. No judgment here.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the center of your preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned on top, and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.

If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil the dish for an additional 2 to 3 minutes at the end of the baking time—just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 9: Rest Before Serving

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This step is important because it allows the layers to settle and makes it easier to cut and serve without falling apart.

Optional Additions and Variations

If you want to customize your baked ziti, here are some tasty ideas:

• Add sautéed spinach between the layers for extra greens.
• Stir in chopped mushrooms or zucchini with the meat sauce for a veggie boost.
• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Make it spicier by adding red pepper flakes or using spicy marinara sauce.
• Go vegetarian by skipping the meat and using a mix of roasted vegetables or lentils.

No matter how you make it, this baked ziti is built to be flexible and forgiving.

How to Serve this baked ziti with ricotta

When it comes to serving cheesy baked ziti, the possibilities are as comforting as the dish itself. Its hearty nature makes it a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can take your dinner to the next level.

One of the simplest and most classic accompaniments is a fresh, crisp salad. A green salad with romaine, arugula, or mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the cheese and sauce. You can also try a tangy lemon-garlic dressing or a balsamic glaze drizzle for extra flavor contrast.

Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are another excellent choice. The buttery, garlicky flavor of a good breadstick is perfect for soaking up every last bit of marinara sauce left on the plate. If you’re short on time, store-bought garlic toast will do the trick, but if you have a few extra minutes, homemade garlic knots can make your meal feel restaurant-worthy.

For something a little heartier, serve the ziti alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower. Their caramelized edges and natural sweetness pair beautifully with the savory baked pasta. You could even grill some asparagus with a touch of lemon juice for a lighter summer option.

If you’re entertaining or serving a crowd, consider offering a few different sides to create a full Italian-inspired spread. A charcuterie-style starter with olives, roasted red peppers, marinated artichokes, and a few cheeses can be a lovely touch before diving into the main course.

And don’t forget the garnishes. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil on top of each serving adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness. A little extra Parmesan at the table never hurts either—it lets each person add as much cheesy goodness as they like.

With the right sides and thoughtful plating, baked ziti goes from simple comfort food to a centerpiece-worthy meal in no time.

Pairing Suggestions for this Cheesy Baked Ziti

Cheesy baked ziti is a meal that pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and drinks, making it an ideal option for both casual weeknight dinners and festive gatherings.

Let’s start with non-alcoholic drink pairings. A sparkling lemonade with fresh mint is a bright, refreshing option that cuts through the richness of the cheese. Iced tea, especially if it’s lightly sweetened and flavored with lemon, also pairs beautifully. For something cozy, consider serving a warm herbal tea like chamomile or mint alongside your meal.

In terms of side dishes, go for contrast. A bitter green salad with radicchio or arugula helps balance the richness of the pasta. Add a few thin slices of red onion and some shaved Parmesan to the salad for a pop of sharp flavor. Dress it simply with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to keep things light.

Roasted vegetables work wonderfully here. Try a medley of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted with olive oil and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Their natural sweetness brings a lovely contrast to the savory, tomato-based ziti.

If you want something with a little more substance, consider a lentil soup or a chickpea-based side salad. These options offer additional protein and fiber while still complementing the main dish.

For kids or more casual meals, you can serve baked ziti with soft bread rolls and a fruit salad. Something like cubed melon, grapes, or berries adds a touch of sweetness and freshness to round out the plate.

And if you’re looking to make dessert part of the plan, consider something simple like vanilla pudding, chocolate chip cookies, or a small scoop of gelato. These sweet endings won’t overpower the flavors of the main course but still offer a satisfying finish.

Whether you’re serving this ziti at a family dinner, a potluck, or a relaxed get-together with friends, thoughtful pairings can elevate the whole meal into a memorable experience.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about this cheesy baked ziti with ricotta and ground beef is how well it keeps. Whether you’re cooking ahead for a busy week, saving leftovers, or prepping meals for a future date, this dish is incredibly storage-friendly.

Storing in the Refrigerator

Once the baked ziti has cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can also store it directly in the baking dish if it’s well covered with foil or a tight-fitting lid. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or the oven. If microwaving, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat for 1–2 minutes or until warmed through.

For oven reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the ziti in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for 15–20 minutes. For extra crispiness, remove the foil in the last 5 minutes of reheating.

Freezing for Later

Baked ziti is a dream when it comes to freezing. You can freeze it fully cooked or freeze it before baking, which is especially convenient for meal prepping.

To freeze before baking, assemble the entire dish in a freezer-safe container or disposable foil tray. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Label it with the date and contents. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to bake, take it out of the freezer, remove the plastic wrap, and cover it again with foil. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 60–70 minutes. In the last 10 minutes, remove the foil to let the cheese brown on top.

To freeze after baking, let the ziti cool completely, then portion it into meal-sized servings in freezer-safe containers. Again, label and date each container. When reheating from frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results, then reheat in the oven or microwave as described above.

Reheating Tips

To avoid a dry or rubbery texture when reheating, always cover your pasta with foil or a damp paper towel and make sure it’s heated evenly. Adding a splash of marinara sauce or a few drops of water before reheating can help reintroduce some moisture to the dish.

Having these reheating and storage options makes this baked ziti even more convenient, turning it into the kind of dish that works not just for dinner tonight but for lunches and dinners all week long—or even next month.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though Cheesy Baked Ziti is a fairly straightforward dish, a few common mistakes can prevent it from turning out as perfectly cheesy and flavorful as you’d like. Here’s what to watch out for, so your ziti comes out just right every time.

1. Overcooking the Pasta

This is probably the most common error. Remember, your pasta will cook further in the oven, so if it’s already soft when you boil it, it can turn mushy after baking. Aim for just shy of al dente—firm but not crunchy. It will finish cooking in the sauce while baking and come out perfectly tender.

2. Not Draining the Ricotta

Ricotta cheese often contains extra moisture, which can make your baked ziti watery if not handled properly. To prevent this, place your ricotta in a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth for 15–20 minutes before mixing it into the filling. This small step makes a big difference in the final texture.

3. Skipping the Resting Time

It’s tempting to dive right in when the ziti comes out of the oven, but resting is key. Giving the dish 10 to 15 minutes to rest allows the layers to firm up and settle, making it easier to cut and serve without the cheese and sauce sliding all over the plate.

4. Not Seasoning Each Layer

Don’t rely solely on the sauce or meat to bring all the flavor. Each component should be seasoned to some degree. A little salt and pepper in the ricotta mixture, well-seasoned meat, and a flavorful sauce all contribute to a perfectly balanced bite.

5. Underbaking or Overbaking

Underbaking can leave your cheese not fully melted and your center lukewarm. Overbaking, on the other hand, can dry out the noodles and turn the top layer into a hardened shell. Stick to the recommended time of 25–30 minutes at 375°F and use visual cues—bubbling edges, melted cheese, and light browning—to know it’s ready.

Avoiding these mistakes will help ensure your baked ziti comes out restaurant-quality every single time. It’s all about paying attention to the little details that make a big impact.

Pro Tips

Looking to take your baked ziti from delicious to downright unforgettable? These pro tips will help you master the art of this classic comfort dish and make it even more satisfying with minimal extra effort.

1. Use a High-Quality Marinara

Since marinara sauce is such a major component, its quality will make a noticeable difference in the final flavor. If you’re using store-bought sauce, choose one with simple, whole ingredients and minimal added sugar. Or, if you have the time, make your own at home with crushed tomatoes, garlic, onion, olive oil, and herbs.

2. Toast the Cheese on Top

For an ultra-golden crust that has a satisfying crunch, broil the ziti for the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, but that extra bit of caramelization on the cheese is next-level good.

3. Add a Dash of Nutmeg to the Ricotta

It might sound unusual, but a pinch of ground nutmeg enhances the creamy, dairy-rich flavor of ricotta without making it taste sweet. It’s a subtle touch that elevates the overall flavor complexity.

4. Build in Layers

Instead of just mixing everything together and dumping it into the baking dish, take the time to layer your ingredients. The contrast between the pasta, meat sauce, and cheese mixtures creates a more dynamic texture and flavor profile, with delicious differences in every bite.

5. Add Fresh Herbs at the End

Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the baked ziti just before serving. Not only does it brighten the flavor and add a pop of color, but it also gives a fresh finish that balances the rich cheese and hearty sauce.

These tips may be small tweaks, but together they can take your baked ziti from great to unforgettable. Cooking is all about the details, and these thoughtful additions show how much love you’re putting into the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, absolutely. While ziti is traditional, penne and rigatoni are great substitutes. The key is choosing a pasta with ridges or a tubular shape so it can hold the sauce and cheese. Avoid thin pasta like spaghetti or linguine, as they won’t give you the same hearty texture.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely. Simply leave out the ground beef and replace it with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. You can also add cooked lentils for a bit of plant-based protein. The rest of the recipe stays the same.

Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is excellent for prepping ahead. Assemble the dish completely, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If you’re baking it straight from the fridge, you may need to add 5–10 extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I keep the ziti from drying out?

Make sure your pasta is well-sauced and your baking dish is covered with foil if you’re baking it for longer than 30 minutes. You can also add a small splash of marinara or water before reheating to keep it moist.

Can I freeze individual portions?

Yes! This is a great way to have single-serving meals ready to go. After baking, let the dish cool completely, then cut into portions and freeze them in airtight containers. Just thaw in the fridge and reheat as needed.

What if I don’t have ricotta?

You can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if needed, though the texture will be slightly different. For a richer, creamier option, mascarpone or a mix of cream cheese and Greek yogurt can work in a pinch.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover baked ziti will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. In the freezer, it’s best used within 2 to 3 months for optimal texture and flavor.

Should I cover the dish when baking?

You don’t need to cover the dish if you’re baking it for 25–30 minutes. However, if it’s baking longer, or you’re reheating it, covering with foil will prevent the top from burning before the inside is heated through.

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to beef. Just be sure to season it well since it’s a bit milder in flavor.

Can I add extra cheese?

Of course. There’s no such thing as too much cheese when it comes to baked ziti. Just be aware that too much cheese on top can sometimes prevent it from browning properly, so use a balanced amount or broil at the end for extra golden goodness.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Cheesy baked ziti with ricotta and ground beef isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. It’s the smell of bubbling marinara sauce filling your kitchen, the satisfaction of layering rich, creamy cheese with hearty meat sauce, and the joy of pulling that perfectly golden, cheesy casserole out of the oven to the applause of hungry mouths. It’s a meal that satisfies every craving: cheesy, saucy, meaty, comforting, and totally soul-warming.

This Cheesy Baked Ziti recipe is one of those go-tos that never lets you down. It’s the kind of dish you can make once and immediately feel like you’ve mastered something special. Even better, it’s totally customizable to your family’s tastes, your available ingredients, or your dietary preferences. Want it meatless? Go for mushrooms and spinach. Craving extra heat? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Need to stretch it further for a crowd? Double the recipe, freeze one, and you’re golden.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding your family, or showing up to a gathering with something homemade, baked ziti has a way of bringing people together. It’s simple enough for a casual weeknight and hearty enough for a celebration. And the best part? It always tastes just as amazing the next day (or the next week, if you’re freezing leftovers).

Now it’s your turn to bring this Cheesy Baked Ziti dish into your kitchen. Get your ingredients ready, clear some counter space, and don’t forget to taste as you go—it’s part of the fun. Once you make this once, I promise it’ll become part of your regular recipe rotation.

And hey, if you give it a try, I’d love to hear how it goes! Leave a comment below with your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or how your family responded. Got a picture of your golden, cheesy masterpiece? Share it and tag me on social media. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing how your meals bring joy to your home.

So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and make this baked ziti yours. Comfort food is calling—and it’s coming out of your oven in 30 minutes, bubbling and glorious.

Print