One-Pan Baked Ziti (Printable version)

Tender ziti with rich tomato sauce and melted cheese baked together in one pan for easy cleanup.

# What you need:

→ Pasta & Sauce

01 - 12 oz dried ziti or penne pasta
02 - 24 oz jar marinara sauce
03 - 2 cups water
04 - 2 tbsp olive oil
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
07 - ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
08 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Cheeses

09 - 1 cup ricotta cheese
10 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
11 - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Fresh

12 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F.
02 - In a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add dried pasta, marinara sauce, water, Italian herbs, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine ensuring the pasta is submerged.
04 - Bring mixture to a simmer, cover with foil or lid, and transfer to the oven. Bake for 25 minutes.
05 - Remove from oven and gently stir. Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese over the surface, then sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
06 - Return to oven without cover and bake an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
07 - Allow to rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • One-pan convenience for minimal cleanup
  • Family-friendly and vegetarian
02 -
  • This dish contains wheat and dairy. Always check labels if you have sensitivities.
  • You can sub penne or rigatoni for ziti without changing the result.
03 -
  • If you prefer your pasta extra tender, add 1 to 2 tablespoons extra water before baking.
  • Let the baked ziti rest for a few minutes for easier serving and better flavor development.
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