One-Pan Baked Ziti (Printable)

Tender ziti combined with tomato sauce and cheese, baked in one pan for easy, flavorful comfort.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta & Sauce

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

→ Cheeses

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

→ Fresh

12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)

# Step-by-Step:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. 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 well to combine, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged.
04 - Bring mixture to a simmer, then cover with aluminum foil or an oven-safe lid. Transfer to the oven and bake for 25 minutes.
05 - Remove pan from oven and stir gently. Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese over the top, then evenly sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
06 - Return skillet uncovered to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
07 - Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and simple weeknight dinner
  • Minimal cleanup with one pan
02 -
  • Contains wheat (gluten) and dairy
  • Can be easily customized with extra vegetables or meat
03 -
  • Broil for 2 minutes at the end for a crispier cheese topping
  • Substitute rigatoni or penne if you cannot find ziti
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