One-Pan Baked Ziti

A comforting, budget-friendly pasta bake featuring tender ziti, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese—all baked together in just one pan for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.

I made this baked ziti for my family last Sunday and everyone loved how cheesy and flavorful it was without a mountain of dishes to wash after dinner.

Ingredients

• Dried ziti or penne: 340 g (12 oz)
• Marinara sauce: 700 ml (24 oz) jar
• Water: 500 ml (2 cups)
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme): 1 tsp
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): ½ tsp
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Ricotta cheese: 250 g (1 cup)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: 120 g (1 cup)
• Grated Parmesan cheese: 30 g (¼ cup)
• Chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish): 2 tbsp

Instructions

Prep Oven:

Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)

Sauté Aromatics:

In a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant

Combine Pasta & Sauce:

Add dried ziti, marinara sauce, water, Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring pasta is submerged

Bake Covered:

Bring to a simmer, cover with foil or lid, and transfer to oven. Bake for 25 minutes

Add Cheese:

Remove pan, stir gently. Dollop ricotta over top, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan

Bake Uncovered:

Return to oven uncovered, bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden

Finish & Serve:

Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving

Save It

Ziti bake nights are a tradition for us, especially when we want something cozy for movie night together.

Required Tools

Large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, aluminum foil or oven-safe lid, measuring cups and spoons, wooden spoon or spatula

Nutritional Information

Calories: 495, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 63 g, Protein: 21 g (per serving)

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal

Save It

This one-pan ziti is sure to be a regular in your meal rotation and makes dinner both easy and delicious.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute the ziti pasta with other types?

Yes, penne or rigatoni can be used as alternatives while maintaining similar texture and cooking times.

→ How do I prevent the pasta from sticking during baking?

Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in sauce and water before baking. Stir gently midway if possible to avoid sticking.

→ What herbs complement this dish best?

Dried basil, oregano, and thyme are classic Italian herbs that enhance the flavor profile nicely.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble it in advance and refrigerate before baking; add extra baking time if starting cold.

→ What is the best way to achieve a golden cheese topping?

Bake uncovered for the final minutes and optionally broil for 2-3 minutes to get bubbly, golden cheese.

→ Are there suggested additions to vary the dish?

Try adding cooked Italian sausage or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.