Pin 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.
This recipe makes weeknight dinners a breeze. The first time I baked ziti in just one pan, my family loved the cheesy top and rich sauce, and I was amazed at how little I had to clean up afterward.
Ingredients
- Pasta & Sauce: 340 g (12 oz) dried ziti or penne, 700 ml (24 oz) jar marinara sauce, 500 ml (2 cups) water, 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme), ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), salt and pepper (to taste)
- Cheeses: 250 g (1 cup) ricotta cheese, 120 g (1 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese, 30 g (¼ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh: 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Start Sauce:
- In a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant
- Add Pasta & Liquid:
- 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, then cover with foil or a lid and transfer to the oven. Bake for 25 minutes
- Add Cheese:
- Remove pan from oven and stir gently. Dollop ricotta cheese over the top, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan
- Bake Uncovered:
- Return to oven uncovered. Bake an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden
- Rest & Garnish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving
Pin We love sharing this baked ziti during cozy family gatherings. It is always a hit for Saturday movie night, and everyone asks for seconds.
Required Tools
Large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, aluminum foil or oven-safe lid, measuring cups and spoons, wooden spoon or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and dairy (cheese). Always check sauce and cheese labels for hidden allergens if needed
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 495, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 63 g, Protein: 21 g
Pin Delicious straight from the oven, this baked ziti is sure to become a new go-to for busy nights. Simply serve and enjoy the hearty goodness with loved ones.
Recipe FAQ
- → What pasta types work best for this dish?
Ziti is traditional, but penne or rigatoni can be used as a substitute for similar texture and shape.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead and refrigerate it before baking to save time on busy days.
- → How do I make the top crispier?
After baking, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy cheese crust.
- → Are there vegetarian modifications?
This version is vegetarian; for added protein, consider including sautéed vegetables or plant-based sausage.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor best?
Dried Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme contribute classic aromatic notes that complement the sauce and cheese.