Go Back
Baked Ziti with Mozzarella

Irresistibly Cheesy Baked Ziti with Mozzarella: Family Favorite

This Baked Ziti with Mozzarella is a comforting and versatile dish that will be a hit at family dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 500 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • Saucepan
  • Large bowl

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 1 package Ziti Pasta or rigatoni

For the Sauce

  • 1 jar Marinara Sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 1 pound Ground Beef or Sausage optional

For the Cheese Mixture

  • 1 container Ricotta Cheese whole milk preferred
  • 3 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese fresh mozzarella recommended
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated preferred

For Flavoring

  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning blend of dried herbs
  • 1 bunch Fresh Basil optional for garnish

Instructions
 

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Boil ziti pasta in salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  • In a saucepan, brown ground beef or sausage, then stir in marinara sauce and heat through.
  • In a large bowl, combine drained pasta with ricotta cheese, adding salt and pepper. Fold in half of the shredded mozzarella.
  • Grease a baking dish and layer half of the pasta mixture, half of the marinara sauce, and sprinkle with Parmesan. Repeat layers.
  • Top with remaining mozzarella. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes.
  • Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Consider sprinkling extra Parmesan on top before serving for added flavor.
Keyword Baked Ziti, comfort food, Family Dinner, Mozzarella, Pasta, Vegetarian Option