There are some dinners that just work – no complaints, no negotiating bites, and no second guessing whether you should’ve made something else. This baked ziti is one of those meals for our house!
It’s the kind of dinner I reach for when I want something comforting but don’t have the energy for anything complicated. The ingredients are simple, the prep is straightforward, and it comes together in a way that feels familiar and cozy. It’s also one of those recipes that somehow tastes even better the next day, which makes it a win for leftovers, lunches, or busy nights when cooking again just isn’t happening.
What I love most about baked ziti is how flexible it is. You can dress it up, keep it basic, stretch it with a salad or bread, or prep it ahead and pop it in the oven when you’re ready. It’s great for feeding a family, bringing to someone who needs a meal, or just having something warm and filling on the table that everyone will actually eat.
If you’re looking for a dependable, comforting dinner that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen, this baked ziti is one you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.
✅ Quick Tips: Want extra flavor? Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pasta mixture.
Easy Baked Ziti (Family-Favorite & Comforting)
Description
This easy baked ziti is a comforting family favorite made with tender pasta, savory ground beef, marinara sauce, and plenty of melty cheese. Simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for make-ahead meals or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F.
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Cook ziti until al dente. Drain.
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Brown ground beef and drain excess grease.
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Mix pasta with marinara and ricotta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Transfer to baking dish, top with mozzarella.
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Bake uncovered 25–30 minutes until bubbly.
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Serve hot ♨ and enjoy!
Note
Cook pasta just to al dente – it will continue cooking in the oven, so slightly firm is perfect.
Drain the beef well to avoid a greasy or watery casserole.
Use a deep baking dish — this gets bubbly and can spill if the dish is too shallow.
Let it rest 5–10 minutes after baking so it sets up and slices cleanly.
Want extra flavor? Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pasta mixture.
Make it ahead: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Freezer-friendly: Assemble but don’t bake. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Stretch the meal: Serve with garlic bread or a simple salad to feed more people without extra cost.
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