Ultimate Creamy Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
Cheesy Baked Ziti is warm, cheesy, and comforting. A family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy nights or casual weekends.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage optional
- 1 jar 24 oz marinara or pasta sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, then add garlic.
- (Optional) Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce and heavy cream. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased 9x13 baking dish, layer as follows: sauce, pasta, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, repeat.
- Finish with Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs.