If you have a soft spot for comforting, cheesy pasta dishes, this Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe is going to become one of your all-time favorites. It perfectly balances tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and a luscious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Every bite delivers a beautiful harmony of creamy textures and bold flavors that feel like a warm, delicious hug from the inside. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or treating yourself, this recipe brings comfort and satisfaction in one irresistible dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays an essential role in creating the perfect Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe. From aromatic garlic to savory herbs and the trio of cheeses, every element builds layers of flavor and texture.
- 1 pound ziti or penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape for holding that tasty sauce and cheese in every nook.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté garlic to fragrant perfection.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with a warm, savory depth.
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce: The tomato base that brings tang and sweetness to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a subtle herbal earthiness reminiscent of Italian flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a slightly sweet, fresh note that brightens the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Provides just a hint of heat to excite the palate.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and a mild flavor to balance the zesty sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided): Melts beautifully for gooey, stretchy loveliness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided): Delivers a nutty, savory kick and golden crust when baked.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every component.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A pop of color and fresh brightness on top.
How to Make Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook the pasta in generously salted boiling water until just al dente, which means it’s tender yet still firm to the bite. This texture ensures the pasta won’t become mushy once baked. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the flavorful sauce.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute or two until it releases its irresistible aroma but before it browns. Stir in the marinara sauce along with oregano, basil, and the optional red pepper flakes. Let this simmer gently for about 5 minutes so the herbs can infuse the sauce deeply. Season with salt and pepper to your liking—this is where much of the heart of the flavor comes together.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese
In a big bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the sauce, then fold in ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan. This combination coats every piece of pasta in a creamy, cheesy embrace that promises comfort with each forkful.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top, ensuring a generous, golden crust forms during baking. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and has those perfectly golden-brown spots. Finally, allow the ziti to rest for about 5 minutes to settle, making it easier to serve.
How to Serve Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe
Garnishes
Although the baked ziti is stunning on its own, sprinkling freshly chopped parsley on top adds a vibrant green contrast that brightens the plate and adds a subtle herbaceous note. You can also add a pinch of extra Parmesan right before serving for an extra cheesy finish.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette, offering a crisp, refreshing break from the rich, cheesy pasta. Garlic bread or a crunchy Italian bread basket also complement the meal superbly by soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing meal, serve the Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe directly from the baking dish at the table in a rustic style. For a more elegant touch, portion the slices onto warm plates and drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick. Adding a few fresh basil leaves on top elevates the presentation and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, they store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld even more, making the next-day meal just as wonderful as fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe by placing portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. It’s best to freeze portions rather than the entire dish to make reheating quicker and easier. Frozen ziti stays good for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator or gently microwave straight from frozen in short bursts. For refrigerated leftovers, warming in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil helps maintain moisture and keeps the cheese melty and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ziti or penne are traditional and excellent choices because their hollow shapes catch the sauce, you can swap in rigatoni or even large shells if you prefer. Just make sure to cook the pasta until al dente to avoid mushiness.
Is this Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe vegetarian?
Yes, the recipe as is vegetarian-friendly. However, if you want to add protein, cooked Italian sausage or ground beef can be stirred into the sauce without compromising the dish’s overall comfort and flavor.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the ziti and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes weeknight dinners or entertaining much easier and more relaxed.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a subtle warmth and a gentle kick, but you can easily leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor. Alternatively, add a little more for a noticeable heat punch—customize it to your spice tolerance.
What can I serve with Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe for a balanced meal?
Adding a side of steamed or sautéed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or a crisp leafy salad will provide color, crunch, and a nutritious balance to the rich, cheesy pasta.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about a warm, homemade casserole loaded with melty cheeses and vibrant tomato sauce, and this Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe delivers all of that and more. It’s perfect for bringing comfort to any mealtime and impressing friends without stress. You’re just a little time away from enjoying one of the coziest, most flavorful pasta bakes you’ll ever make. Give it a try—you’ll be glad you did!
Print
Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Three Cheese Baked Ziti is a comforting Italian-American classic featuring perfectly cooked pasta smothered in a savory garlic marinara sauce and a luscious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Baked to bubbly, golden perfection, this hearty vegetarian main course is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, delivering rich flavors with a simple preparation.
Ingredients
Pasta & Sauce
- 1 pound ziti or penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cheeses
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti or penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta with sauce and cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the prepared marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella (1/2 cup), and half of the grated Parmesan (1/4 cup). Mix gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and cheeses.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining mozzarella (1/2 cup) and Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup) over the top to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and lightly golden brown.
- Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve warm for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a heartier meal, add cooked Italian sausage or browned ground beef to the sauce.
- Mix in sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated before serving.
