Best Baked Ziti: A Perfect Way to Use Leftover Tomato Sauce
Total Time: 50 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8
If you’re looking for a simple, satisfying dish to prepare for the family, this Best Baked Ziti is the perfect recipe to try. Whether you’ve got leftover homemade tomato sauce or you’re using your favorite jarred version, this dish is a hearty meal the whole family will love. It’s packed with creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and flavorful Parmesan cheese, making it a great option for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. My kids practically grew up on this dish, and I bet yours will love it too!
This baked ziti is a comfort food classic with a twist of homemade goodness, and it’s easy to make with minimal prep time. The rich and flavorful combination of pasta, sauce, and cheeses will fill your kitchen with delicious aromas as it bakes in the oven. Plus, it’s a great way to make use of leftover tomato sauce, ensuring you waste nothing while serving up a crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ziti pasta | 16 ounces (1 box) |
| Ricotta cheese | 3 1/2 cups |
| Mozzarella cheese (shredded) | 2 cups |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 2 tablespoons |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Oregano | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 1/4 cup |
| Spaghetti sauce (preferably homemade) | 3 cups |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 464.4 kcal |
| Total Fat | 17.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 78.4 mg |
| Sodium | 479.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 53.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.4 g |
| Sugars | 7 g |
| Protein | 22.7 g |
Instructions
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Cook the Ziti
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Make sure to save some time for the sauce and cheese to blend later. -
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with 1 1/2 cups of your homemade or store-bought spaghetti sauce. Stir in the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, chopped fresh parsley, egg, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined. -
Assemble the Ziti in the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray for easier cleanup. Pour 1/2 cup of spaghetti sauce into the bottom of the pan, spreading it out evenly. Then, layer the ziti mixture on top of the sauce, spreading it out evenly. The cheese and pasta mixture should cover the bottom of the pan in a uniform layer. -
Top with Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining 1 1/2 cups of spaghetti sauce over the ziti mixture. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the sauce evenly across the top. Finish by sprinkling 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top, and if you’d like, add a bit more mozzarella for an extra cheesy layer. -
Bake the Ziti
Cover the pan with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in and prevent the cheese from browning too early. Bake the ziti in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the dish is heated through. For an even more golden top, you can remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking. -
Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the ziti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to set and make it easier to slice. Garnish with additional fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti
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Make-Ahead Option: This recipe can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover the pan with foil and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When ready, add an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time if the dish is cold.
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Add More Veggies: For a heartier version, try adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the ziti mixture. These vegetables will enhance the flavor and make the dish even more nutritious.
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Make It Meatless or Add Protein: If you prefer a meatless option, the ziti is just as delicious without any meat. However, for meat lovers, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken to the pasta mixture for added protein.
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Use Leftover Sauce: This recipe is perfect for utilizing leftover homemade tomato sauce, but it’s also versatile enough to work with your favorite store-bought variety. Feel free to get creative with your sauce – try a spicy marinara or a hearty meat sauce for a different twist.
Final Thoughts
This Best Baked Ziti is an ideal family meal that’s easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. The combination of tender pasta, savory sauce, and creamy cheese is guaranteed to make this dish a staple in your weekly dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or making a simple family meal, this baked ziti will satisfy everyone’s hunger and leave them asking for seconds. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s always a hit!
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful homemade ziti, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family – they’ll thank you later!
