When you need a comforting dinner without a sink full of dishes, this One-Dish 5-Ingredient Baked Ziti is exactly what you want. Made with just pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan, it keeps things simple while delivering that classic, cheesy baked pasta everyone loves.
The pasta is tossed with rich tomato sauce and creamy ricotta, then baked in a single dish and topped with plenty of melty cheese for a golden, bubbly finish. It’s hearty, satisfying, and comes together in under an hour with minimal prep.
Perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute dinners, or feeding a hungry family, this easy baked ziti proves that simple ingredients and one baking dish are all you need for a warm, reliable meal.
Serves: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 14 oz (400 g) ziti pasta
- 3 cups (720 ml) marinara sauce
- 1½ cups (375 g) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup (50 g) grated parmesan
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti in salted water until just al dente. Drain.
3. In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with marinara sauce and ricotta until evenly combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Serve With
Turn this simple baked ziti into a complete, satisfying meal with easy sides that complement its rich, cheesy flavor:
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up extra marinara sauce.
- Classic Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, parmesan, and creamy dressing balance the richness.
- Roasted Vegetables – Try zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli for added color and texture.
- Simple Arugula Salad – Toss with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and shaved parmesan.
- Fresh Basil & Extra Parmesan – Sprinkle on top just before serving for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the baked ziti, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
Can I add meat?
Absolutely. Browned ground beef or Italian sausage can be stirred into the marinara sauce before mixing with the pasta.
Can I substitute ricotta?
Yes. Cottage cheese works well and gives a slightly lighter texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Yes. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Easy Ways to Elevate This Baked Ziti
Upgrade the Cheese
Use whole milk ricotta for a richer, creamier texture. Freshly grated mozzarella and parmesan melt more smoothly and give a better flavor than pre-shredded varieties.
Add Fresh Herbs
A handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley sprinkled over the top before serving adds brightness, color, and a more refined finish.
Finish with Olive Oil
Drizzle a small amount of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the baked ziti just before serving. It adds subtle richness and gives the dish a more polished, restaurant-style touch.
