20 Easy Baked Ziti Recipes for Dinner Tonight

1. Classic Baked Ziti

This traditional baked ziti recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining hearty pasta with a rich tomato sauce and gooey cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• In a large bowl, mix together the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and Italian seasoning. Add the cooked ziti and stir until well combined.
• Spread half of the ziti mixture in a greased baking dish. Top with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese.
• Add the remaining ziti mixture and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

2. Spinach and Ricotta Baked Ziti

Add a nutritious twist to your baked ziti with this spinach and ricotta version. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens while still enjoying a comforting meal.

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup cooked spinach, drained and chopped
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Boil the ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a bowl, mix together marinara sauce, ricotta, spinach, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Combine the ziti with the sauce mixture and pour half into a greased baking dish.
• Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, then repeat the layering.
• Bake for 30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

3. Meat Lover’s Baked Ziti

This meat lover’s baked ziti is packed with ground beef and sausage, making it a hearty option for those who crave a filling meal.

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a skillet, brown the ground beef and sausage. Drain excess fat and add marinara sauce.
• In a large bowl, mix the meat sauce with ricotta cheese. Stir in cooked ziti.
• Layer half of the mixture in a greased baking dish, top with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Add the remaining ziti mixture and top with remaining cheeses.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden.

4. Veggie-Packed Baked Ziti

For a lighter option, this veggie-packed baked ziti is loaded with colorful vegetables, making it a delicious way to enjoy a healthy meal.

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup diced zucchini
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a skillet, sauté zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
• In a bowl, mix marinara sauce, ricotta, and sautéed vegetables.
• Combine the ziti with the sauce mixture and layer in a baking dish with mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Pesto Baked Ziti

Give your baked ziti a flavor boost with this pesto version. The aromatic basil and pine nuts make for a delightful twist on the classic recipe.

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 cup pesto sauce
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a bowl, mix pesto sauce with marinara and ricotta cheese. Add cooked ziti and stir to combine.
• Layer half of the mixture in a greased baking dish, top with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Repeat the layers, finishing with cheese on top.
• Bake for 30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Alfredo Baked Ziti

This creamy Alfredo baked ziti is perfect for those who love rich and decadent flavors. It’s a delightful change from the traditional tomato-based recipes.

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a bowl, mix Alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Combine the sauce with the cooked ziti and pour into a greased baking dish.
• Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

7. Buffalo Chicken Baked Ziti

If you love spicy flavors, this buffalo chicken baked ziti is for you. It combines the kick of buffalo sauce with tender chicken and creamy cheese.

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Combine with cooked ziti and pour into a greased baking dish.
• Top with mozzarella and blue cheese, if using.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

8. Caprese Baked Ziti

This fresh and flavorful Caprese baked ziti is inspired by the classic Italian salad, featuring basil, mozzarella, and tomatoes for a vibrant dish.

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a bowl, combine marinara sauce, cooked ziti, mozzarella, basil, salt, and pepper.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Creamy Tomato Baked Ziti

For a comforting and creamy dish, try this creamy tomato baked ziti made with a blend of ricotta and cream that pairs perfectly with a rich tomato sauce.

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a bowl, mix marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Combine with cooked ziti and pour into a greased baking dish.
• Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
• Bake for 30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

10. Greek Baked Ziti

Experience the flavors of Greece with this Greek baked ziti, featuring feta cheese, olives, and spinach for a delightful Mediterranean twist.

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup spinach, cooked and chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a large bowl, mix marinara sauce, ricotta, spinach, feta, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Combine with cooked ziti and pour into a greased baking dish.
• Top with mozzarella cheese.
• Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

11. Cajun Shrimp Baked Ziti

This spicy Cajun shrimp baked ziti is a seafood lover’s dream, combining tender shrimp with ziti in a flavorful sauce that packs a punch.

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup Cajun sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a skillet, sauté shrimp with Cajun seasoning until pink. Remove from heat.
• In a bowl, mix Cajun sauce, ricotta, shrimp, salt, and pepper.
• Combine with cooked ziti and pour into a greased baking dish.
• Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

12. Taco Baked Ziti

This taco baked ziti is a fun and flavorful fusion of two beloved dishes. Perfect for taco night or any night when you’re craving something different!

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 2 cups salsa
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a skillet, cook ground meat with taco seasoning until browned. Stir in salsa.
• In a bowl, mix ricotta with the cooked ziti and meat mixture.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with cheddar cheese, olives, and green onions.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

13. Lemon Basil Baked Ziti

This refreshing lemon basil baked ziti is perfect for summer nights, offering a light and zesty flavor that is both satisfying and delicious.

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a bowl, mix marinara sauce, ricotta, lemon juice, basil, salt, and pepper.
• Combine with cooked ziti and pour into a greased baking dish.
• Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

14. Baked Ziti with Sausage and Peppers

This baked ziti with sausage and peppers is a hearty dish featuring delicious Italian sausage and colorful bell peppers for a satisfying meal.

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage, sliced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a skillet, sauté sausage and bell peppers until sausage is cooked through. Add marinara sauce.
• In a large bowl, mix ricotta with the sausage mixture and cooked ziti.
• Pour into a greased baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
• Bake for 30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

15. Baked Ziti with Butternut Squash

This baked ziti with butternut squash is a unique and wholesome dish that combines the sweetness of squash with creamy cheese and pasta.

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups butternut squash, roasted and pureed
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a bowl, mix pureed butternut squash with marinara sauce and ricotta cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
• Combine with cooked ziti and pour into a greased baking dish.
• Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
• Bake for 30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

16. Baked Ziti with Artichokes

This baked ziti with artichokes offers a delightful twist, incorporating tender artichokes for added flavor and texture.

• Ingredients:
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a bowl, mix artichokes with marinara sauce, ricotta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Combine with cooked ziti and pour into a greased baking dish.
• Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

17. Baked Ziti with Egg

20 Easy Baked Ziti Recipes for Dinner Tonight