Save 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.
I remember the first time I tried making baked ziti in one pan: I was amazed at the simplicity and how the flavors melded together perfectly. The cheesy top and saucy pasta were devoured by my whole family before it even had a chance to fully cool.
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
- Prep & Sauté:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). In a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce:
- Add dried ziti, marinara sauce, water, Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, making sure 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 & Finish Baking:
- Remove pan from oven, stir gently. Dollop ricotta cheese over the top, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan. Return to oven uncovered and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Rest & Garnish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Save Second helpings of baked ziti are a given in our house and it is always a favorite at potlucks or busy weeknights. Even picky eaters smile when I serve this cheesy pasta bake straight from the oven.
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.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 495, Total Fat 18 g, Carbohydrates 63 g, Protein 21 g.
Save This one-pan baked ziti brings comforting flavors with minimal mess. You can prep everything ahead and enjoy a satisfying pasta bake any night of the week.
Recipe Help
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Traditionally dried ziti is used, but penne or rigatoni are excellent substitutes for similar texture and size.
- → Can I add protein or vegetables to enhance this bake?
Yes, incorporating cooked Italian sausage or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms adds flavor and nutrition.
- → How do I achieve a crispy cheese topping?
For a golden, crispy top layer, broil the dish for 2 to 3 minutes at the end of baking.
- → What herbs complement the flavors in this pasta bake?
Dried Italian herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme build depth, while fresh basil or parsley add a bright finish.
- → Is there an easy way to minimize cleanup?
This dish is designed to be prepared and baked entirely in one ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, simplifying cleanup.