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Baked Ziti — Classic Oven-Baked Pasta Casserole

Yields6 ServingsPrep Time20 minsCook Time35 minsTotal Time55 mins

This baked ziti recipe brings together tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and layers of melted cheese for the ultimate Italian comfort food. Perfect for cozy autumn dinners and anyone craving a classic cheesy pasta bake.

Baked ziti pasta casserole in a white ceramic baking dish with golden melted cheese, vintage brass fork, and subtle autumn leaves on a rustic wooden table — cozy Italian comfort food.

 400 g Ziti pasta
 2 tbsp Olive oil
 300 g Ground beef (or Italian sausage)
 1 Onion, finely chopped
 3 Garlic cloves, minced
 700 ml Tomato sauce
 2 tbsp Tomato paste
 1 tsp Dried oregano
 1 tsp Dried basil
 1 tsp Salt
 ½ tsp Black pepper
 250 g Ricotta cheese
 200 g Mozzarella cheese, shredded
 50 g Parmesan cheese, grated
 1 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and ground beef, and cook until browned.

3

Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 10–12 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning.

4

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the tomato sauce. Mix gently to coat the pasta evenly.

5

Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Add half of the pasta mixture, sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan. Repeat the layers and finish with cheese on top.

6

Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

7

Remove from the oven and let cool for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

6 servings

Serving size

Amount per serving
Calories520
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 24g31%
Total Carbohydrate 46g17%
Protein 28g

* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.