Name: 5-Ingredient Easy Classic Baked Ziti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti pasta (or penne/rigatoni); 3 cups marinara sauce; 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

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This 5-Ingredient Easy Classic Baked Ziti is the ultimate no-fuss comfort food. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a bubbly, cheesy, satisfying pasta bake that tastes like it took hours to make. It’s the kind of dish I turn to when I want something warm and filling with minimal prep and cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or make-ahead meals, this ziti is as easy as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple and foolproof this baked ziti is. It’s budget-friendly, quick to put together, and always a crowd-pleaser. Even with just five ingredients, it delivers big on flavor—creamy cheese, savory sauce, and tender pasta all baked to golden perfection. Whether I’m cooking for my family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe always delivers. 5-Ingredient Easy Classic Baked Ziti

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ziti pasta (or any short pasta like penne or rigatoni)
Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Ricotta cheese
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Parmesan cheese (grated)

Directions

I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
I cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente, then drain it.
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the cooked pasta with marinara sauce and ricotta cheese, stirring until everything is well coated.
I pour half the mixture into the baking dish, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses on top.
I add the remaining pasta mixture and finish with the rest of the mozzarella and parmesan.
I cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
I remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.
I let it rest for 5 minutes before serving so everything sets nicely.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 and takes roughly 40–45 minutes total—15 minutes of prep and 25–30 minutes of baking.

Variations

Even with just five ingredients, I like to switch things up sometimes:

Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or meatballs for a meaty version.
Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta if that’s what I have.
Stir in a handful of spinach or chopped basil for freshness.
Make it spicy with a dash of crushed red pepper flakes.
Try a mix of cheeses like provolone, fontina, or asiago for different flavor.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I cover and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions. I sometimes add a splash of marinara or water before reheating to keep it moist. 5-Ingredient Easy Classic Baked Ziti

FAQs

Can I make this baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble it earlier in the day or the night before, cover, and refrigerate. I just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze it?

Definitely. I freeze the assembled (unbaked) casserole tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. When I’m ready to bake, I thaw it overnight in the fridge or bake it straight from frozen, adding extra baking time.

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes, I sometimes use penne, rigatoni, or rotini. Any short pasta that holds sauce works great.

What kind of sauce is best?

I like a simple marinara, but I’ve also used a chunky vegetable or spicy arrabbiata sauce for variety. Just use whatever I enjoy most.

Can I make it vegetarian?

It already is! Unless I add meat, it’s a delicious meatless meal as written.

Conclusion

This 5-Ingredient Easy Classic Baked Ziti is a lifesaver when I need something hearty and satisfying without a lot of effort. It’s cheesy, saucy, and full of comforting flavor, all with minimal ingredients and time. Whether I’m feeding a hungry family, meal prepping, or just craving a no-stress dinner, this baked ziti never lets me down.