One-Pan Baked Ziti

Today I’m bringing you this One-Pan Baked Ziti because I absolutely love recipes that feel comforting effortless and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd and I know this one will quickly become a favorite in your home too. I’m starting with this dish since it combines tender pasta rich meat sauce and gooey melted cheese all in one pan which makes clean-up just as easy as the cooking itself.

I’m sharing this version because every time I make it I’m reminded how satisfying it is to see the pasta soak up all the tomato goodness while the cheese melts into those irresistible stretchy layers and I want you to enjoy that same cozy moment in your kitchen. And I really enjoy how everything bakes together into a complete meal with minimal steps.

I’m excited to guide you through this recipe because I know how helpful it is to have a dependable weeknight dinner that tastes like comfort with very little effort and I love how adaptable baked ziti can be whether you’re cooking for family or just meal-prepping ahead. And once you take that first cheesy bite you’ll know why it’s such a classic.

I’m thrilled you’re here for this dish because it’s simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough to impress anyone and I want you to feel confident from the first stir of the meat sauce to the final bubbling cheese topping. And you’ll love how wonderfully hearty it turns out every single time.

I’m inviting you to settle into this recipe with excitement because One-Pan Baked Ziti is warm filling satisfying and beautifully fuss-free and I can’t wait for you to enjoy how rich creamy and flavorful it becomes straight from the oven.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Ground beef – Adds hearty flavor and richness to the sauce.
• Onion – Gives the sauce aromatic depth.
• Garlic – Infuses the sauce with warm savory notes.
• Crushed tomatoes – Form the saucy base that coats the pasta.
• Diced tomatoes – Add texture and freshness to the dish.
• Italian seasoning – Brings classic herb flavors to the sauce.
• Salt – Enhances every ingredient in the ziti.
• Black pepper – Balances the flavors with gentle warmth.
• Penne or ziti pasta – Holds the sauce beautifully and bakes perfectly.
• Ricotta cheese – Adds creamy richness in pockets throughout the dish.
• Mozzarella cheese – Melts into a stretchy golden topping.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds salty nutty depth to finish the dish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or oven-safe pan – I use this to cook the meat sauce and bake everything in one pan.
• Wooden spoon – Helps me break up the meat and stir the sauce.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensure balanced seasoning and perfect ratios.
• Baking dish – Only needed if you prefer transferring the pasta before baking.
• Oven – Bakes the ziti until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
• Spatula – Makes serving neat and easy.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Meat

I begin by heating my skillet and browning the ground beef until fully cooked then I drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

I stir in diced onion and minced garlic letting them cook until soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

I add crushed tomatoes diced tomatoes Italian seasoning salt and pepper then I let the sauce simmer so the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

I pour uncooked pasta straight into the sauce and stir well making sure each piece is coated.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

I let the pasta cook right in the sauce until it softens and absorbs all that delicious tomato flavor.

Step 6: Add Ricotta

I spoon dollops of ricotta on top of the pasta and gently swirl it in for creamy pockets throughout.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Bake

I sprinkle plenty of mozzarella and Parmesan over the top then I bake until the cheese melts turns golden and becomes irresistibly bubbly.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

I let the baked ziti rest for a few minutes so it sets then I scoop generous portions onto plates.

Tips

If you want even more flavor I sometimes add a splash of red wine to the sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. You can also swap ground beef for Italian sausage or ground turkey if you prefer. And if the pasta absorbs too much sauce while cooking I just add a bit of water or broth to keep everything saucy and delicious.

Ways to Serve

I love serving One-Pan Baked Ziti with a crisp green salad because the freshness balances the richness perfectly. A side of garlic bread takes it to the next level and if I’m cooking for guests I like finishing the dish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan for a beautiful touch.

Storage Instructions

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days and it reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave. For freezer-friendly meal prep I portion the ziti into containers and freeze for up to three months then thaw overnight before reheating. Adding a splash of marinara during reheating helps keep it moist and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another pasta shape for One-Pan Baked Ziti?

Yes any short pasta like rigatoni or penne works wonderfully.

Can I make this without ricotta?

Absolutely just use extra mozzarella or a little cream cheese instead.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes you can assemble it earlier and bake when ready or store unbaked for a day in the fridge.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this One-Pan Baked Ziti soon because it’s comforting hearty and incredibly simple and I’d love to hear how yours turns out. Save it for weeknights gatherings or anytime you want a satisfying warm meal with minimal effort.

Happy Cooking!

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