Home > Main Course > Baked Ziti (Easy Pasta Casserole) VIDEO

Baked Ziti (Easy Pasta Casserole) VIDEO

Baked Ziti is an easy, saucy, and cheesy pasta casserole. This has all of the great flavors of Lasagna but is simple to prepare and serve as a pasta bake. 

Baked ziti recipe with serving spoon

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Baked Ziti Recipe Video:

Watch Natasha make this easy baked ziti pasta casserole. This is so easy and delicious. It also reheats so well and you will be excited about leftovers!

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What is Baked Ziti?

Ziti is a tubular-shaped pasta. Baked ziti is an Italian-American casserole of ziti noodles with Marinara Sauce, ricotta, and cheese. The combination of mozzarella and parmesan is our secret to making the BEST Baked Ziti!

Ingredients for baked ziti with ziti pasta, marinara, ground beef, mozzarella, ricotta and parmesan cheese

We love making baked ziti with meat sauce because it has all of the familiar flavors of classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce, but it comes together fast and is easy to serve as a pasta bake (without the fuss of layering lasagna noodles).

Meat sauce for baked ziti

How to Make Baked Ziti:

This is the easiest pasta casserole and the results are so satisfying. It’s no wonder Baked Ziti is such a popular dish. Watch the video tutorial above and you will be a pro in no time.

  1. Cook pasta in salted water until al-dente then drain.
  2. In a dutch oven, sautee ground beef and onion until cooked through. Add garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add Marinara Sauce and simmer 5 minutes. Ladle 1/2 cup sauce into a 9×13 casserole dish.
  4. Spoon in ricotta and basil and stir lightly. Stir in pasta, mixing just until noodles are coated.
  5. Add half the pasta mixture to the casserole, top with half the mozzarella and parmesan then repeat.
  6. Bake uncovered at 350˚f for 25 minutes then broil 2 minutes to brown the top.

step by step how to make and assemble baked ziti casserole

What Kind of Pasta Can I Use?

The classic pasta choice is ziti pasta. Ziti is a tube-shaped pasta, but you can also substitute with any short tubular shaped pasta, just be sure to cook until al-dente according to package instructions. If you aren’t able to find ziti noodles, try these instead:

  • Penne
  • Rigatoni
  • Mostaccioli

P.S. If you are looking for a spaghetti pasta Casserole, try our Chicken Tetrazzini.

Saucy ziti noodles in baked ziti casserole

Can I Substitute Ground Beef?

You can substitute with a variety of meats to change up your baked ziti. You can even make a vegetarian baked ziti and leave the meat out all together. Any of these options will work great in this pasta casserole:

  • Chicken – Baked Ziti is so easy using leftover rotisserie chicken
  • Italian Sausage – cook the sausage as you would ground beef
  • Ground Turkey – a leaner and tasty option
  • Meatballs – sauteed meatballs work great for this casserole

What Vegetables Can I add to Baked Ziti?

Adding veggies is a great way to turn this pasta casserole into a meal in itself. If you’re looking to make baked ziti without meat, you can use one or all of these veggies together to make the best Vegetarian Ziti.

  • Zucchini – dice and sautee with the onion until tender
  • Mushrooms – slice and saute with onion until soft
  • Cauliflower – roast cauliflower and add it to the sauce

Saucy cheesy ziti noodles on serving spoon

Can I Make this Pasta Casserole Ahead?

Refrigerate Overnight: You can assemble, cover with foil and refrigerate overnight. Bake at 350˚F, covered with foil for 10 minutes until it comes to room temperature, then remove foil and bake as directed in the recipe.

To Freeze: Tightly cover and freeze unbaked casserole up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator then bake at 350˚F covered in foil for 10 minutes to bring it to temperature. Uncover and finish baking as directed in the recipe.

More Casserole Recipes:

We love casseroles for dinner because they can be made ahead and reheat really well so you get to enjoy leftovers for days. These are the top-rated casserole recipes on our blog. I hope you find many new favorites here.

Baked Ziti (Easy Pasta Casserole) VIDEO

5 from 173 votes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 27 minutes
Total Time: 57 minutes
Baked ziti in casserole dish
Baked Ziti is an easy, saucy, and cheesy pasta casserole. It has all of the great flavors of Lasagna but is simple to prepare and serve as a pasta bake. 
Author: Natasha Kravchuk
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Keyword: baked ziti, baked ziti recipe
Skill Level: Easy
Cost to Make: $14-$16
Calories: 469
Servings: 10 people

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ziti pasta, or penne pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef, 85% lean
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 5 cups marinara sauce
  • 15 oz fresh ricotta
  • 10 fresh basil leaves
  • 12 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions until just aldente them drain (so not overcook since they will continue to cook in the oven).
  2. In a deep pan or dutch oven, over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and onion, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until beef is fully cooked through and onions are softened (5-7 minutes). Add minced garlic, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper and sautee another minute. Add 5 cups marinara, bring to a simmer and continue cooking 5 minutes then turn off the heat.
  3. Spread a ladle of meat sauce over the bottom of a 9x13 casserole dish.
  4. Into the remaining sauce, add chopped basil and spoon in ricotta. Add cooked pasta and stir just until noodles are coated (you want to keep that ricotta texture)

  5. Transfer half of the pasta to the casserole dish. Top with 1/2 of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 grated parmesan. Add remaining pasta and top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan.
  6. Clear the edges of the pan so the cheese doesn’t burn onto the dish. Bake at 350˚F for 25 minutes. Broil 1-2 minutes to brown the cheese. Let cool 5 minutes then garnish with basil if desired and serve.
Nutrition Facts
Baked Ziti (Easy Pasta Casserole) VIDEO
Amount Per Serving
Calories 469 Calories from Fat 153
% Daily Value*
Fat 17g26%
Saturated Fat 10g63%
Cholesterol 80mg27%
Sodium 1307mg57%
Potassium 765mg22%
Carbohydrates 44g15%
Fiber 4g17%
Sugar 7g8%
Protein 34g68%
Vitamin A 991IU20%
Vitamin C 10mg12%
Calcium 498mg50%
Iron 3mg17%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to see pics of your creations on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter! Hashtag them #natashaskitchen

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Natasha Kravchuk

Welcome to my kitchen! I am Natasha, the blogger behind Natasha's Kitchen (since 2009). My husband and I run this blog together and share only our best, family approved and tested recipes with YOU. Thanks for stopping by! We are so happy you're here.

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Read comments/reviewsAdd comment/review

  • Alisha D
    March 29, 2023

    I’ve made this several times beforr with Kielbasa, but tonight I used Ground Bison, and my hubby and I both thought it was even better! The kids love it and are happy when there are leftovers so they can take it to school the next day and don’t have to prepare their lunches:) This dish comes together rather quickly and is so very tasty. Thank you for all of your amazing recipes!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      March 29, 2023

      Thats great, Alisha! I’m so glad you loved the recipe. Thank you for sharing your experience.

      Reply

  • Marie Griggs
    March 5, 2023

    It’s me again!! Should of added that my family does not like cream cheese either!! Again, can I just use the Mozzareel cheese? Thanks again.
    Marie Griggs

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      March 5, 2023

      Hi Marie, I have not experimented on that but feel free to give that a try. It might work!

      Reply

  • Marie Griggs
    March 5, 2023

    My family does not like ricotta or cottage cheese. Can I make this with just the mozzarella cheese? Thanks
    Marie Griggs

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      March 5, 2023

      Hi Marie! You can if you’d like, it won’t be quite the same but I’m sure it will still be delicious.

      Reply

  • Gigi
    March 4, 2023

    If I could give this recipe 6 stars, would because almost every one in my house enjoyed this. I felt really awesome making it, cause it seemed hard and complicated, but it wasn’t! Thank you, Natasha! You’ve blessed us all!! 💜

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      March 4, 2023

      That’s wonderful, Gigi! I’m so glad you loved it.

      Reply

  • Donna
    February 21, 2023

    I rate Natasha’s Kitchen recipes with 5 or more stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ because she has never disappointed me!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      February 21, 2023

      Awe, thank you, Donna. That is very sweet. 🙂

      Reply

  • Cameron
    January 17, 2023

    Made this for dinner tonight – oh my – SOOO good!!! Looking forward to taking leftovers to work for lunch tomorrow 🙂

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      January 17, 2023

      I’m so glad you loved it! Thanks for sharing.

      Reply

  • Fran
    January 16, 2023

    I made this recipe for the first time last night. My family absolutely loved it. We ate the leftover casserole this evening. Thank you, Natasha!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      January 17, 2023

      That’s wonderful, Fran! I’m so glad it was a hit. Thank you for sharing.

      Reply

  • Nadia
    January 5, 2023

    Hi Natasha! Would it work to substitute a block of cream cheese instead of the ricotta cheese?

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      January 5, 2023

      Hi Nadia! Cottage cheese may work also. I haven’t tested it but one of our readers made this with cream cheese to substitute for ricotta.

      Reply

  • Oweka
    January 1, 2023

    This was so good, even my very picky son enjoyed it and came back for more. I didn’t have beef but I did have some leftover ground turkey that I used. I also didn’t have penne or ziti but jumbo fusilli pasta. It all turned out perfectly and I broiled it at the end as suggested. Delicious!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      January 1, 2023

      That’s wonderful! I’m so glad it was a hit!

      Reply

  • John Farrugia
    December 31, 2022

    Well Natasha I’ve been making this for the last 35years exactly like yours my wife used to invite all her friends for this while I was sent packing to the cinema while they enjoyed the dinner.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 31, 2022

      Aww, that’s the best! Thank you so much for sharing that with me, John!

      Reply

  • Patricia
    December 25, 2022

    Love this recipe. I will continue to make it . Quick question : my meat sauce after adding the ricotta
    (low fat because it was all I could find ) became speckled and grainy . Is that how it’s supposed to be?

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      December 26, 2022

      Hi Patricia! No, generally it is not grainy. It could be because of the low fat but it could also be the brand of the ricotta and how it was processed.

      Reply

  • Jenny
    November 29, 2022

    Made on the fly on a busy night. Ended up making the marinara sauce too with another of your recipes. It was a big hit.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 29, 2022

      Happy to hear that this recipe was a huge hit!

      Reply

  • Linda Burton
    November 20, 2022

    Natasha…not the other..gheez. my fingers i think had some of your ziti on them…lol sorry.

    Reply

  • Linda Burton
    November 20, 2022

    NatNatas.i just love you. I made this and it is delish. I had some leftover homemade spaghetti sauce I had frozen and wanted to use up. It pretty much had the same ingredients but no marinara. I am so impressed. This is wonderful and a great comfort food for these cold fall days.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 20, 2022

      Hi Linda, thank you for your great comments and feedback. We’re glad you love this recipe!

      Reply

  • shanta
    November 16, 2022

    If you are not using meat and just ziti in the recipe how much ziti should I use to accomodate for the beef?

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 16, 2022

      Hi Shanta, I have not tried that version to advise but feel free to do an experiment!

      Reply

  • Michael Kelley
    October 30, 2022

    I make a batch (well, 1/2 batch actually) for my wife to bring to her parents when we visit. I can make it head of time and it transports easily for the 1 1/2 hour drive. They are both in their 80’s and love this dish.

    Here at home it’s become a family staple meal.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      October 30, 2022

      Yes this is a great make ahead recipe, so glad that you share this to your family!

      Reply

  • Alexandra
    October 22, 2022

    Amazing! A hit for the whole family! Used store-bought marinara but followed recipe as written and everyone loved it. This was followed by your apple pie recipe as well (also a huge hit!). Thank you – can’t wait to try more recipes.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 22, 2022

      So glad it was enjoyed! Thank you for the review. I hope you’ll find many more recipes to enjoy!

      Reply

  • S. SHEFFIELD
    October 19, 2022

    This was fantastic. I did swap italian sausauge for the hamburger though..

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 19, 2022

      Thank you so much for sharing that with me.

      Reply

      • Susie Horne
        November 12, 2022

        I have pesto on hand. Could I stir it in instead of using fresh basil? If so, how much would you recommend I use?

        Reply

        • NatashasKitchen.com
          November 12, 2022

          Hi Susie! That could work, you’ll have to experiment with the amount.

          Reply

  • Peggy Faucheaux
    October 17, 2022

    Made your Ziti recipe this weekend, only I used rigatoni and added a couple of links of sweet Italian sausage. It was delicious. My only complaint was that it made so much. Next time, will have to make it in two batches and freeze one for later. Thanks for the recipe!! (I will have to add it to my list of favs from you, Spatchcock chicken being my all-time favorite)

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 17, 2022

      Thank you for sharing that with us, Peggy! That’s wonderful.

      Reply

  • Peggy Faucheaux
    October 16, 2022

    Made this for dinner tonjght, with a couple of changes. I only had rigatoni I added 2 links of Italian sweet sausage. It came out solo good delicious!! Thanks for the recipe!!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      October 16, 2022

      Hello Peggy, good to know that it was a success! Thank you for your comments and feedback.

      Reply

  • Cris
    October 11, 2022

    Perfection!
    I used one jar of regular marinara and one jar of roasted garlic marinara (I was in a hurry) and regarding the ricotta, I used only 3/4 of the 15 oz container and added an additional 1/2 cup of mascarpone. It was a beautiful-tasting dish.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      October 11, 2022

      Nice to know that you liked the result!

      Reply

  • Lisa Canales rogers
    September 23, 2022

    Hello I’m Lisa If I don’t have the stuff for homemade Marinara sauce what sauce jar can I use instead would love to make this today for dinner for the first time seeing everyone raving about it and looks so good I’m ready to eat now..but if you can suggest any good jar that would go prefect with this please let me know soon thanks so much.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      September 23, 2022

      Hi Lisa. You can purchase a marinara sauce or pasta sauce. I like the ones that have roasted garlic or notes of basil in them but anyone would be fine.

      Reply

      • Lisa Canales rogers
        September 26, 2022

        Thanks so much will try that out I appreciate your recipes so much your always making great flavors I love it

        Reply

        • NatashasKitchen.com
          September 26, 2022

          Thank you! So glad you enjoy them. 🙂

          Reply

  • Janet Young
    September 21, 2022

    Looks delicious…will give it a try. Thankyou, your recipes always look wonderful!!!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      September 21, 2022

      Thank you! I hope you’ll love all the recipes that you will try.

      Reply

  • Robert
    September 2, 2022

    I made this dish last night but used Italian sausage instead of beef. Everything else was just as the recipe said. It was awesome; a huge success for my group. It’s undoubtedly the best ziti I have ever tasted, and all thanks to you! Thanks for a great recipe, next time I’ll use beef just to compare.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      September 2, 2022

      That’s wonderful! So glad it was enjoyed, Robert.

      Reply

  • Christine Holden
    August 27, 2022

    I made this and it was amazing taste is so good and very easy to prepare. I usually make Lasagna for Thanksgiving week when I have lots of company. I am going to change and bake this as it takes much less time to prepare!! Love your recipes

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      August 27, 2022

      I’m so happy you’re enjoying my recipes, Christine! That’s so great!

      Reply

  • Caty
    July 27, 2022

    Your Baked Ziti recipe is fabulous! It’s so flavorful, especially when made with basil, fresh from the garden. 👍👍👍

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      July 27, 2022

      Hello Caty, that’s awesome feedback. Thanks for sharing!

      Reply

  • Kayla
    June 22, 2022

    I made this last night and it was delicious! The recipe is simple and easy to follow and it was a hit in the house, everyone loved it! I would definitely make this again, I found a keeper!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      June 22, 2022

      So glad to hear that, Kayla!

      Reply

  • Liz Les
    June 10, 2022

    Absolutely delicious! I used Italian sausage instead of hamburger but, followed the rest of the recipe exactly as written. My husband went back for seconds and kept saying how wonderful dinner was. Thank you for sharing this great recipe!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      June 10, 2022

      You’re very welcome! Thank you for the feedback.

      Reply

  • Nancy
    June 2, 2022

    I typically just wing it with baked ziti, but I decided to give your recipe a try and am so glad I did. It is delicious. Your marinara sauce is such a great base, especially with the fresh basil from my garden. I will definitely make it again.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      June 2, 2022

      Thank you! So glad you enjoyed this recipe, Nancy.

      Reply

    • D
      July 19, 2022

      Very nice recipe. However, ricotta is listed in ingredients and is not in baked ziti.

      Reply

  • Lori
    May 27, 2022

    This recipe was delicious! My family loved it. I will be making a double batch to freeze one casserole in the future! Liked the flavors and enjoyed it! Your videos are great!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      May 27, 2022

      I’m so happy this was a hit with your family, Lori! That’s just awesome!

      Reply

  • Elena
    May 13, 2022

    you are amazing! I will be making this recipe 05/15/2022
    for my son first communion celebration. <3
    Thank you Natasha!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      May 13, 2022

      You’re welcome! I’m so happy you enjoyed it, Elena!

      Reply

  • Richard Liles
    April 13, 2022

    I recently retired and my wife went back to work. I started cooking more and one day found out about your videos. So thankful I did! This baked ziti is my favorite! I could cook it every week. Best wishes to you and your wonderful family.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      April 13, 2022

      I’m so glad to hear you found my blog and a favorite new recipe, Richard That’s just awesome! I hope you get to try more soon!

      Reply

  • Lizzy
    April 4, 2022

    Made this tonight. Added 1tsp of Italian seasoning to the meat instead of the basil (didn’t have any) and used my favorite store bought pasta sauce. Soooooo good. Very kid friendly!!!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      April 5, 2022

      Good to hear that you loved the result, Lizzy!

      Reply

  • Jan Drinkwater
    April 3, 2022

    Natasha you always amaze me- this baked ziti was out of this world! I brought some to my friends and her granddaughter said “ this is awesome”- and it is! Thank you so much- I will make this over and over

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      April 3, 2022

      That’s so great to hear, Jan! Thanks a lot for sharing that with us.

      Reply

  • Jill
    April 1, 2022

    Delicious. Used ground turkey next time I’ll add some zucchini.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      April 1, 2022

      I’m so happy you enjoyed that. Thank you for sharing that with us, Jill!

      Reply

  • Carol
    March 26, 2022

    Tried your recipe for baked ziti.
    Absolutely easy to make and very scrumptious. This recipe is a keeper.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      March 26, 2022

      Hi Carol! So happy you found a keeper! Thank you for the review!

      Reply

  • Zara Plakakis
    March 24, 2022

    I made this recipe (tripled) for our small group meeting last night. It was a hit!! So so good!! Used penne for the pasta and mild Italian ground sausage instead of beef.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      March 24, 2022

      That sounds wonderful! So glad it was a hit. Thank you for sharing.

      Reply

  • Lisa
    March 23, 2022

    I just made this tonight, family loved it. The only con was the color of the sauce was very pink adding in the ricotta which didn’t look very appealing but it was still very delicious, thank you.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      March 24, 2022

      Glad you enjoyed it, Lisa. Not sure why it turned out very pink, that never happened to me before.

      Reply

  • Sue
    February 26, 2022

    I just made this tonight and it was fantastic! I’m especially happy because my husband doesn’t like lasagna because of the ricotta. Well, he didn’t know it was in there and he raved about it! Thanks!!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      February 26, 2022

      You’re welcome! I’m so happy you enjoyed it, Sue!

      Reply

  • Alex
    February 11, 2022

    Novice in the kitchen decided to give this a try as it looked wonderful. Came out great decided to add some sausage and did cheat by using store bought Marinara, regardless was awesome. Thank you very much for sharing

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      February 11, 2022

      I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Alex!

      Reply

  • Marie
    January 29, 2022

    Definitely a “10”. We loved it!!
    Thank you! Easy, quick, delicious!!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      January 30, 2022

      Yay! Thanks a lot for the perfect score, we appreciate the review!

      Reply

  • Chin
    January 27, 2022

    Hi, can i substitute ricotta with cream cheese or cheddar cheese?

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 27, 2022

      Hi Chin, cottage cheese may work also. I haven’t tested this but one of our readers also made this with cream cheese to substitute for ricotta.

      Reply

  • aynie cargill
    January 24, 2022

    Made this last night, should have taken a picture. I made it with a mixture of ground beef and mild italian sausage, everything else the same. It was a “10”! So easy and so delicious. Thanks for your great recipes

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 24, 2022

      That’s just awesome! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review!

      Reply

  • Bob Janes
    January 20, 2022

    Hi Natasha……..my wife loves mushrooms…..her family is Ukranian …..so would the mushrooms be a good fit

    Thanks from Ontario Canada

    Love your (my go to) recipes and web site!!!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 20, 2022

      Hi Bob, I bet that would be a delicious addition! I hope you love it!

      Reply

  • Emily
    January 16, 2022

    Hey Natashas,
    I was wondering if I could make this recipe in a clear casserole dish?

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 17, 2022

      Hi Emily, if it’s oven safe, I bet that could work. Ensure it’s a nice deep one.

      Reply

  • Patricia
    December 28, 2021

    Made this last night with whole wheat Penne Pasta and substituted cottage cheese for the ricotta. Everyone loved it! will never make lasagna again!
    Thank you so much for sharing your talents!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 28, 2021

      Yum! Thank you so much for sharing that with me, Patricia! I’m so glad you enjoyed it!

      Reply

  • Kenya
    December 11, 2021

    Hi Natasha,

    I want to thank you for teaching me how to make baked ziti. I was a bit intimidated at first, but after watching your video, and following your instructions step by step, I was able to make this and it came out so good! Thank you for all that you do 🙂

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 11, 2021

      You’re welcome! I’m so happy you enjoyed it, Kenya!

      Reply

  • Meredith
    November 29, 2021

    Hi Natasha, this pasta looks delicious. If I double the recipe, do I need to double the bake time?

    Reply

    • Natasha
      November 29, 2021

      Hi Meredith, not necessarily. If you have 2 casserole dishes in the oven together (assuming the oven is large enough to accommodate them), I would base the bake time on visual cues but it would be about the same bake time, possibly 5 minutes longer. When it’s done, the cheese should be melted and you’ll see the sauce bubbling a little bit at the edges.

      Reply

  • Inna
    November 25, 2021

    Hi! Has anyone tried substituting cottage cheese for ricotta? I’m wondering if I can still make this with what I have and avoid the grocery store haha

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 26, 2021

      Hi Inna, I haven’t tried this with all cottage cheese but that should still work. You might drain well and then mash up the cottage cheese for a similar texture

      Reply

  • Lindsay
    October 21, 2021

    Made this for the first time tonight for my father’s birthday…AMAZING! I generally do not like baked pasta because it tends to get very dry but this was amazing! I have yet to find a recipe on your website that wasn’t great! Thank you so much!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      October 22, 2021

      That’s awesome feedback, Lindsay. Thank you for sharing that with us!

      Reply

  • susan
    October 6, 2021

    for years ive tried to make baked ziti. i could never get the sauce to cheese to pasta ratio right. then there is the whole to add an egg or not to add an egg opinion. i made this last night and WOW perfect!!! i used my homemade sauce and it was the best baked ziti ive ever made or tasted!!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      October 6, 2021

      That’s awesome feedback, Susan. Thank you so much for sharing that with us! Glad you tried this recipe and you found the perfect recipe that you were looking for!

      Reply

  • Tami
    September 17, 2021

    Made this last night and it was amazing, we have about half of it left and was wondering a good way to reheat it, thank you 🙂

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 17, 2021

      I’m so glad you enjoyed this recipe, Tami! Yes, leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated but not for too long.

      Reply

    • susan
      October 6, 2021

      I reheated in the microwave covered in plastic wrap (one piece at a time) for 2-2.5 minutes, then let it stand covered with the wrap to let it continue to heat though. It was really good!

      Reply

  • Keri
    September 7, 2021

    If we are going to use your homemade marinara sauce, do we still add the addition onion and garlic when browning the ground beef? Also, I’ve loved all the recipes I’ve tried of yours!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      September 7, 2021

      Hi Keri, Yes I would still add it to the beef too. Hope you love all the recipes that you will try!

      Reply

  • C
    September 3, 2021

    Thank you for a great meal!! Followed recipe exactly and turned out delicious! I just have to add I love to collect recipes but never make them because I’m an inexperienced cook and don’t really enjoy it to be honest. Glad I took a chance on this! The step by step video was so helpful as were all the tips-even the simple ones! Thanks for helping my first homemade meal a success!!!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 3, 2021

      I’m so glad you took this change too, C! Yay for a successful homemade meal!

      Reply

  • Bianca Kuazko
    August 5, 2021

    👋🏻hi , quick question for us newbies at cooking is there a marinara sauce that I can buy that will taste good or will it kill the whole recipe? Thanks in advance

    Reply

  • G Sprague
    August 5, 2021

    Real baked Ziti does not have any meat in it. Originally came from Amandos in Brooklyn Heights, where murder incorporated use to meet.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      August 5, 2021

      Thanks for the info. This is the version that we actually tried and loved but thank you so much for sharing that with us!

      Reply

  • Paige
    August 1, 2021

    Made two of these yesterday for lunch today: one with half ground beef and half Italian sausage and the other with half ground turkey and half Italian sausage. Both were fantastic! We used chickpea pasta and it worked great. It was so nice to just throw it in the oven before my son’s birthday party today. We made the marinara sauce Thursday so the flavors mixed nicely. Oh and the birthday cake was your red velvet cake with cream cheese icing! So thanks Natasha for catering our whole meal:)

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      August 2, 2021

      I’m so happy to hear that! Thank you for sharing your great review, Paige!

      Reply

  • Patty
    July 29, 2021

    I made this for dinner this evening and my husband raved on how much he enjoyed it. His all time favorite ethnic food is Italian. I had a eggplant I needed to cook, so I cubed it, roasted it and layered it with the noodles, sauce and cheese, it was delicious!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      July 29, 2021

      Thank you so much for sharing that with me. I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Patty!

      Reply

  • Zoie Penick
    July 12, 2021

    Hi Natasha! My sister and I made this recipe for dinner today. We absolutely loved it! Our family and us tore it up. It was so divine! We used penne pasta, instead of ziti. That’s what we had on hand for today. Beefy, saucy, and cheesy. Thanks for the recipe Natasha!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      July 12, 2021

      I’m so happy to hear this was a hit! Thank you for sharing your great review, Zoie!

      Reply

  • Shelly
    July 12, 2021

    We loved this recipe! Followed the recipe and it come out delicious with lots of leftovers!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      July 12, 2021

      That’s just awesome! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review, Shelly!

      Reply

  • Stephanie
    July 11, 2021

    Hi Natasha I have a quick question: you refer to your casserole dish as a 9×13 dish and on your amazon link, it lists as a 13×9 so is it the same? I have a 13×9 baking dish (pyrex) and have found it is quite different. Thanks!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      July 12, 2021

      Hey Stephanie, 9×13 or 13×9 is the same size. Some pyrex dishes are taller than others, and this one is taller. We used this one HERE that can also be found in our Amazon Affiliate Shop HERE.

      Reply

      • Stephanie
        July 12, 2021

        Thank you Natasha! I ordered this dish in rustic ivory and I appreciate the feedback!

        Reply

  • Jean
    July 11, 2021

    I noticed the recipe for the Baked Ziti calls for 5 cups marinara sauce. The recipe you suggest for your homemade marinara sauce makes 3 cups. Any suggestions, or do I need to double the marinara sauce recipe?

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      July 12, 2021

      Hey Jean, you can double it up, that’s what we do 🙂

      Reply

  • Anita Adams
    July 5, 2021

    Has anyone tried this with whole wheat pasta? Making some dietary changes as we age and for my husbands health. I’ll be trying it this week with whole wheat penne and half/half ground beef/turkey. I’ll keep ya posted! Love all your recipes.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      July 5, 2021

      Hi Anita, I peeked at the comments, and I’m not seeing anyone mention whole wheat pasta. I bet that would work here though, if you happen to experiment, I’d love to know how you like this recipe!

      Reply

  • Nancy DeVine
    June 12, 2021

    I made this tonight with your marinara recipe and it was delicious! I have made several of your recipes and all of them are outstanding. I love knowing that if I see a recipe you share, that appeals to me, it’s going to be really great. Thanks!!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      June 13, 2021

      Hello Nancy, that is a fantastic review and feedback! Thank you so much for sharing that with us.

      Reply

  • Wendy Genaros
    June 12, 2021

    Can you add half of pound of italian sausage instead of just using ground beef?

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      June 12, 2021

      Hi Wendy, I imagine that should work. If you do an experiment, please share with us how it goes.

      Reply

  • Bruria
    June 11, 2021

    Hi
    Can I use cheddar cheese instead of permassan ?
    Thanks

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      June 11, 2021

      Hi Bruria, we prefer it with parmesan but that may work. If you experiment I would love to know how you like it!

      Reply

  • Noree False
    June 4, 2021

    Absolutely amazing!!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      June 4, 2021

      I’m so glad you enjoyed it!

      Reply

  • John Connolly
    April 18, 2021

    This turned out excellent. My tips: I boiled the pasta halfway, like 4 minutes; it came out perfect after baking. Second, I used 2 pounds of meat, Italian sausage only.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      April 18, 2021

      Nice, thank you for your tips, John!

      Reply

    • frances elward
      June 16, 2021

      MADE YOUR BAKED ZITA. NY GRANDDAUGHTER,AGE 12 SAID “IT WAS BUSTING”

      Reply

  • Laurie
    April 18, 2021

    Would like more low carb dishes

    Reply

    • Natasha
      April 18, 2021

      Hi Laurie, we have a Keto category although it isn’t all-inclusive since we recently started building out this category on our site.

      Reply

  • Pam C.
    April 15, 2021

    I thought this baked ziti was the best I’ve ever tasted. Superb!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      April 16, 2021

      That is fantastic feedback. Thank you, Pam!

      Reply

  • Donna
    April 15, 2021

    I have made this before and it was delicious! I am having company and would love to make this but they do not eat meat. Can I make this without?

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      April 16, 2021

      Hi Donna, I think that would work but you would have to do an experiment on that as I haven’t tried that yet to advise.

      Reply

      • Donna
        April 16, 2021

        Thank you

        Reply

      • Lisa Cook
        January 17, 2022

        Hello Donna!
        I have made it without the meat and everyone loved it.

        Reply

  • Kristine
    April 1, 2021

    I’ve seen other videos that don’t thaw out the chicken. Is this wise for the instapot? Also, what is the recommended time frozen chicken should be eaten? Thank you!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      April 1, 2021

      Hi Kristine, we prefer thawing it, but I bet that could work.

      Reply

  • Chana Luedke
    March 31, 2021

    OMG I love this every recipe i have tried so far is def restaurant quality means !!this was incredible I added sweet peas lol to mine and made it even better ..Thank you

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 31, 2021

      Yum! Thank you so much for sharing that with me.

      Reply

  • Judy
    March 30, 2021

    So how do we measure 5 cups of marinara sauce correctly? In a dry cup or wet cup?

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 30, 2021

      Hi Judy, that is a great question. I would use a wet measuring cup. This post on measuring goes into more measuring tips and tricks.

      Reply

  • Mary
    March 28, 2021

    Hi! Can I make this with Italian sausage instead of beef?

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      March 28, 2021

      Hi Mary, I imagine that should work. If you do an experiment, please share with us how it goes.

      Reply

  • Pressley
    March 23, 2021

    I have 2 questions if that’s ok

    Can we use low skim mozzarella ?

    where do we buy the ricotta?

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 23, 2021

      Hi Pressley, we purchase it at our local grocery store, it’s usually by the cheese section.

      Reply

      • Lisa
        October 10, 2021

        do you use whole milk or part skim ricotta cheese? i don’t think this part of the question was answered.

        Reply

        • Natasha
          October 10, 2021

          Hi Lisa, I use whole milk ricotta and it adds a nice richness but I think a low-fat one would still work if you wanted a leaner Ziti casserole.

          Reply

  • D. Johnson
    March 16, 2021

    Another winner. Your videos are as entertaining as they are informative.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 16, 2021

      Thank you for that wonderful compliment!

      Reply

  • Ashley
    March 13, 2021

    Hi Natasha,
    If I can’t broil at the end, should I leave it in the oven for longer? If so, how much longer?

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 13, 2021

      Hi Ashley, we have always broiled it but a few more minutes should do it.

      Reply

  • Susan
    March 9, 2021

    Can I make it up ahead of time and bake it just before I need it for supper

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      March 9, 2021

      Hi Susan, yes you can. Please check this portion in the recipe “Can I Make this Pasta Casserole Ahead?”

      Reply

  • MARY JANE Lizer
    March 6, 2021

    Made this tonight for my family. Was so easy and delicious. My grandbabies who are 2 and 1 ate every bit. Definitely a keeper

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      March 7, 2021

      I’m happy to hear that, Mary Jane. Thank you for your great comments and feedback!

      Reply

  • Ashley
    March 4, 2021

    Hi Natasha,
    If I can’t broil at the end, how much longer should I bake it for?
    Thanks!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 5, 2021

      Hi Ashley, you can add a few extra minutes to make sure it looks golden at the top.

      Reply

  • John
    February 26, 2021

    Another new (to me) Natasha recipe; another home-run winner. Easy to make, and loved by every one at the table. Lasagna-type “fullness” but … lighter, somehow. Thanks for another great find!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      February 26, 2021

      You’re welcome! I’m happy you enjoyed this, John!

      Reply

  • Sandra
    February 26, 2021

    Hi Natasha! I will be making this tomorrow night for dinner. To make ahead, is it better to make the night before or the morning of? I couldn’t find ziti, is this better with rigatoni or penne?

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      February 26, 2021

      Hi Sandra, I haven’t tested this, but our readers have with both penne and rigatoni. We like it best fresh, but you can reheat it.

      Reply

  • Julie Butler
    February 25, 2021

    Made this tonight and it was so good! We added mushrooms to it and it was great! Will definitely make this again and again!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      February 25, 2021

      Hi Julie, I’m glad to read your comments and review. Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback!

      Reply

  • Bonnie Baker
    February 14, 2021

    Made this tonight for our Valentines dinner, and my husband went back for seconds, so it was a huge hit! Thank you so much for your wonderful and easy recipes, Happy Valentines Day to you!

    Reply

  • Chris seckler
    February 11, 2021

    Wow! Wow! Wow! I made this tonight, and I realized I’m making Baked Ziti All Wrong! Lol! Your method is way better! Cheesy ,Easy and So Tasty! My Husband went back for seconds! And he doesn’t like Italian! Lol! I did add a can of Crushed tomatoes to the sauce. And I add a little water around the whole 13×9 inch pan! It keeps the pasta soft and doesn’t dry out! Thanks so much Natasha! Love All your Recipes! And uplifting Personality! God Bless you and your Family! Happy Cooking and Baking! ❤️

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      February 11, 2021

      You’re welcome, Chris! It sounds like you have a new favorite!

      Reply

  • Angela
    February 11, 2021

    Hi! Do you drain the fat after the beef is cooked? Will try this soon can’t wait!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      February 11, 2021

      Hi Angela, we did not. I hope you love this recipe.

      Reply

  • Stephanie
    February 7, 2021

    This calls for 5 cups of marinara sauce, but the recipe you linked only makes 3 cups of sauce. Assuming I need to double the marinara recipe and just not use it all?

    Reply

    • Natasha
      February 7, 2021

      Hi Stephanie, yes, that is correct. If you want to use a homemade marinara, you would want to increase the recipe.

      Reply

  • Greg S
    February 5, 2021

    I have made this several times and it’s so easy and delicious! I was was wondering what would happen if one substituted chicken for the beef? If so, still a pound? Breast or thigh meat? Would it even work?

    Reply

    • Natasha
      February 6, 2021

      Hi Greg, that should still work to change up the protein. You could even make this without any meat and it would still work.

      Reply

  • Sandra
    February 2, 2021

    I made your baked ziti tonight and it was a hit! The family loved it. Thanks for another great recipe!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      February 2, 2021

      You’re welcome, Sandra! I’m so glad you enjoyed it.

      Reply

      • Zarina
        February 3, 2021

        hi natasha, can i use pasta sauce (tomato, herb, basil) instead of marinara?

        and also i cant find ricotta cheese (even cottage cheese) here in our town, can i use cream cheese as a substitute?

        Reply

        • Natasha's Kitchen
          February 4, 2021

          Hi Zarina, cream cheese should work. I haven’t tried that yet to advise. I have a marina sauce recipe that you might want to try instead.

          Reply

  • Carol B
    January 31, 2021

    Easy and delicious

    Reply

  • John
    January 20, 2021

    I’m gonna give this recipe a try in the next court days. Thank you for sharing..

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 20, 2021

      I hope you love this recipe, John!

      Reply

  • Mary
    January 17, 2021

    Made the Mariana sauce and it turned out delicious. Thank you.

    Reply

  • Amy
    January 16, 2021

    I love all of your recipes! I want to make this but have 1% cottage cheese, not ricotta. Do you think this will still work? If not, I will wait until our next grocery run (our town is in lockdown). Thanks 🙂

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 16, 2021

      Hi Amy, I haven’t tried this with all cottage cheese but that should still work. You might drain well and then mash up the cottage cheese for a similar texture.

      Reply

  • JESSICA H
    January 16, 2021

    I have made this several times….this time my grocery store was completely sold out of ricotta…(i know right!) Any way i tried 8oz of cream cheese softened with a bit of cream and OMG was so good….this is for sure a family favorite

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 16, 2021

      I’m so happy to hear that! Thank you for sharing your great review, Jessica.

      Reply

    • Alla B
      December 21, 2022

      Hi Jessica, the recipe calls for 15oz of ricotta, but based on your comment it appears you used only 8oz of cream cheese instead. Did you reduce the recipe in half? I am looking for a lower cholesterol substitute. I want to use low fat cream cheese and just trying to figure out how much.

      Reply

  • Pam
    January 16, 2021

    I usually prefer lasagna over baked ziti but my husband loves baked ziti. I followed your recipe for baked ziti and it was so delicious. Thank you 😋

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 16, 2021

      You’re welcome! I’m so happy you enjoyed it, Pam!

      Reply

  • Tina Witte
    January 16, 2021

    I love your beautiful casserole dish with the wide handles on each side. Where did you get it or what brand is it? I would love to try your recipe with this casserole dish.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 16, 2021

      Hi Tina, all of our favorite tools and dishes can be found in our Amazon Shop Here or our Blog Shop Here! I hope that helps! I used the 9×13 dish.

      Reply

  • Deb Spedale
    January 14, 2021

    I made this tonight with you marinara sauce…. it was amazing! I will be making this again!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 14, 2021

      That’s just awesome! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review!

      Reply

  • Delia Wimberly
    January 11, 2021

    Your recipe looks amazing! I use ground Italian sausage when I make ziti and it is so flavorful! Thanks for all your wonderful recipes and videos!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 11, 2021

      You’re welcome! I’m so happy you’re enjoying our recipes!

      Reply

  • Susan Andrews
    January 5, 2021

    Hi Natasha, this was sooo good. I know you recommend freezing unbaked but could I still freeze leftovers? Would it be good ?

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      January 5, 2021

      Thank you, Susan. Yes, leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated but not for so long. I would recommend freezing before baking. Tightly cover and freeze unbaked casserole up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator then bake at 350˚F covered in foil for 10 minutes to bring it to temperature. Uncover and finish baking as directed in the recipe.

      Reply

  • Sara
    January 4, 2021

    Hi Natasha,
    I’m making this in (2) 8×8 pans and freezing it. Will I still cook it the same way as the frozen directions? Or should it be cooked less since the pan is smaller?

    Reply

    • Natasha
      January 5, 2021

      Hi Sara, you might bake a few minutes less since the volume of two 8×8 dishes will be slightly more spread out than a 9×13.

      Reply

      • Sara
        January 5, 2021

        Will do, thanks!

        Reply

  • Diana
    January 1, 2021

    Natasha,
    I made this tonight and it was outstanding!! I’ve also made your chicken parm., asparagus casserole and the smashed parm. potatoes. Every recipe is wonderful— thank you for sharing!!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 2, 2021

      Hi Diana! It sounds like you enjoyed an amazing dinner! That’s so great!

      Reply

  • Carol
    December 29, 2020

    The sauce is so delicious you could use it in so many ways. My family loved this, feeds an army too. The addition of the basil is not to be skipped.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 29, 2020

      That’s so great, Carol! Thank you for that wonderful review!

      Reply

  • Pam
    December 27, 2020

    I haven’t made baked ziti in a long time. Natasha, your recipe was delicious. Very cheesy, the way I like it. My husband liked it too. Thank you.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      December 27, 2020

      I’m glad you and your husband enjoyed it, Pam. Thanks for sharing!

      Reply

  • Jessica
    December 27, 2020

    Made it tonight and it was great!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      December 27, 2020

      Awesome! Thanks for your good feedback, Jessica.

      Reply

  • Dawn
    December 19, 2020

    This looks great! What brand of 9×13 deep dish is that? Trying to find one but many are clear….

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 19, 2020

      Hi Dawn, all of our favorite tools and dishes can be found in our Amazon Shop Here or our Blog Shop Here! I hope that helps! I used the 9×13 dish.

      Reply

      • Kitchen Expert
        December 27, 2020

        Hi Natasha The baked ziti i made is Delish I loved it me and my family.

        Reply

  • Debra
    December 7, 2020

    This was very tasty and the leftovers were just as good.

    Thanks Natasha! Another winner.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      December 7, 2020

      So great to hear that! Thank you, Debra!

      Reply

  • Donna
    December 6, 2020

    Hi – where do I find the white casserole dish you are using for the baked ziti? I went under shop and it is not in there.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      December 6, 2020

      Hello Donna, all of our favorite tools and dishes can be found in our Amazon Shop Here or our Blog Shop Here! I hope that helps! I used the 9×13 dish.

      Reply

  • Elizabeth
    December 5, 2020

    Thanks for responding back to me Natasha. If you had to choose one of the cheeses that your family would not notice too much which one would you choose. Thank you

    Reply

    • Natasha
      December 8, 2020

      Hi Elizabeth, our family’s favorite cheese is a low moisture, part-skim mozzarella. It’s hard to resist that melty cheese pull.

      Reply

  • Marilyn Flynn
    December 4, 2020

    What’s the best way to reheat this dish? It’s delicious.
    Thank you.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 4, 2020

      Hi Marilyn, it would depend if you are reheating from frozen or no. But yes, leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven until heated through. I would recommend freezing before baking. Tightly cover and freeze unbaked casserole up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator then bake at 350˚F covered in foil for 10 minutes to bring it to temperature. Uncover and finish baking as directed in the recipe.

      Reply

  • Elizabeth
    December 2, 2020

    Hi Natasha. I really want to try this receipe but most of my family are not fans of ricotta, cream cheese or cottage cheese. What if any can I substitute with instead? Thank you

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      December 2, 2020

      Hi Elizabeth, all the cheese that you mentioned are mostly the cheese being used for this recipe. I have not tried any other substitute yet to advise,

      Reply

    • Yvonne
      December 23, 2020

      I made it with sour cream instead of ricotta and it was amazingly delicious.

      Reply

      • Natashas Kitchen
        December 23, 2020

        Thank you for sharing that with us Yvonne!

        Reply

  • Judy
    November 21, 2020

    I made this with ground Italian sausage and cut everything, except the mozzarella, in half. It came out great. Thank you so much.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 22, 2020

      Glad you enjoyed it, Judy! Thank you for sharing.

      Reply

  • Carmen Filson
    November 19, 2020

    This was so awesome, but a lot for 2 people. Can leftovers be frozen?

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 19, 2020

      Hello Carmen, yes, leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated but not for so long. I would recommend freezing before baking. Tightly cover and freeze unbaked casserole up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator then bake at 350˚F covered in foil for 10 minutes to bring it to temperature. Uncover and finish baking as directed in the recipe.

      Reply

  • Barbara McMillan
    November 16, 2020

    I made this tonight and it was so delicious! Easy enough to make, and it bakes in 25 minutes or a little less!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 17, 2020

      Yay, fantastic! Thank you for sharing that with us, Barbara.

      Reply

      • Marilyn Flynn
        December 4, 2020

        What is the best way to reheat?

        Reply

        • Natasha
          December 4, 2020

          Hi Marilyn, it depends on how much of it you are reheating. You can reheat a portion in the microwave or the full casserole in the oven.

          Reply

  • Vicki Beavers
    November 11, 2020

    I was you all the time! Just made your ziti! Absolutely delicious! Thank you so much.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 11, 2020

      You’re most welcome, Vicki. I hope you enjoyed it!

      Reply

  • Lauren
    November 9, 2020

    Made this subbing mezze rigatoni for the ziti and added extra garlic. Came out absolutely phenomenal! My dad couldn’t stop raving about it. Thanks Natasha!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      November 9, 2020

      You’re welcome! I’m so happy you enjoyed it!

      Reply

  • Martyna Sprague
    November 9, 2020

    Can I use a 9 by 13 pan instead?

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 9, 2020

      Hello Martyna, yes that should be good!

      Reply

  • CathyinToledo
    November 7, 2020

    I’d like to make this vegetarian and add zucchini. Since I’m leaving out the hamburger-can you suggest how much zucchini I should mix into this recipe?

    Reply

    • Natasha
      November 7, 2020

      Hi Cathy, this is often made vegetarian so you can add zucchini based on your preference but I would sautee it first before mixing it with the sauce.

      Reply

  • Carol Fuller
    November 5, 2020

    Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta cheese?

    Reply

    • Natasha
      November 5, 2020

      Hi Carol, I haven’t tried this with all cottage cheese but that should still work. You might drain well and then mash up the cottage cheese for a similar texture.

      Reply

  • Debbie HELMERS
    November 4, 2020

    so if you need 5 cups of sauce your basically have to double the sauce receipe because it only make 3 cups…correct?

    Reply

    • Natasha
      November 5, 2020

      Hi Debbie, I would increase everything proportionally and use 2 casserole dishes.

      Reply

  • Liya
    November 3, 2020

    So easy to make and it tasted amazing!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      November 3, 2020

      I’m so glad you enjoyed that Liya!

      Reply

  • Sandy M.
    November 2, 2020

    For people asking about what to use instead of ricotta, or cottage cheese, I used 1/2 cup sour cream and added it to the meat sauce.

    Was delicious.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      November 2, 2020

      I’m glad to hear that worked! Thank you for sharing Sandy!

      Reply

  • Kiruthika Hariharan
    October 16, 2020

    We made this for lunch today and it was absolutely delicious!!!
    The whole family loved it!!!

    Reply

  • Susan Gruden
    October 6, 2020

    Hi Natasha, I’ve tried so many of your recipes, and loved them. Question baked Ziti can the sauce be switched with Alfredo my granddaughter docent like red sauces.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      October 6, 2020

      Hello Susan, I’m glad you’re enjoying my recipes. I honestly haven’t tried using alfredo sauce to advise but I imagine that will work too. If you do an experiment, please share with us how it goes!

      Reply

  • Bill
    October 6, 2020

    Damn,this is really good, and I didn’t really expect it since I’m not much of a lasagna fan!! And simple is an under statement. If you make the sauce in advance, this is a week night throw together

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 6, 2020

      Isn’t it so great! I’m happy you enjoyed this recipe Bill!

      Reply

  • Jyothi
    October 4, 2020

    Made ziti tonight based on your recipe. Except added a bit of hot sauce for the portion I did for my husband. He said this is the best ziti he ever had. And my kids loved the non spicy version. Thank you. Love your recipes!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 5, 2020

      Wow! That’s so great! Thank you for sharing this awesome feedback with us!

      Reply

  • Betty Anne
    October 4, 2020

    Hi Natasha, I would love to try this receipe but my family are not a fan of Ricotta cheese. Can I substitute another kind of cheese in its place?
    Thanks Betty Anne

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 5, 2020

      Hi Betty, cottage cheese may work also. I haven’t tested this but one of our readers also made this with cream cheese to substitute for ricotta.

      Reply

  • Melanie Hollingsworth
    October 3, 2020

    Hi Natasha! What casserole dish did you use?

    Reply

  • Glynis
    October 3, 2020

    Where is the link for the cheese grater please x

    Reply

  • Courtney Motz
    October 3, 2020

    I made the baked ziti last night and it was so delicious I’m having some for breakfast now. I love your recipes. Thank you so much!

    Reply

    • October 3, 2020

      Thank you for the glowing review, I’m so glad you enjoyed it! I’ve found myself having Ziti for breakfast.

      Reply

  • Christine
    October 2, 2020

    Hi Natasha! Ever since I came across your FB page I started loving your videos. You’re so cute making it entertaining and being funny I tried your lasagna and first time I made lasagna and my kid loves it! I used cream cheese though coz ricotta and cottage cheese is hard to find in supermarkets here in Phils. Would it be nice to add bechamel sauce on top? You have a recipe for it? Thanks!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 2, 2020

      Hi Christine, I do not at this time but that is a great thought! Thank you for sharing that with me.

      Reply

  • Angelina Naumov
    October 1, 2020

    Made this tonight, it was such a hit with my family! My kids loved it! Thank you Natasha!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 1, 2020

      Aww! That’s so great! Thank you for the wonderful review!

      Reply

  • Shabana
    October 1, 2020

    I saw your recipe on your page. And went to see if I had everything and I actually! So I made baked ziti on Wednesday and it was a hit and family enjoyed it. Thanks for sharing 😊

    Reply

    • October 1, 2020

      That makes to so happy to hear, so glad your family enjoyed the recipe!

      Reply

    • Angelina Naumov
      October 1, 2020

      Made this tonight, it was such a hit with my family! My kids loved it! Thank you Natasha!

      Reply

      • Natashas Kitchen
        October 1, 2020

        You’re welcome! I’m so happy you enjoyed that!

        Reply

  • Lydia
    September 30, 2020

    Natasha, I love your recipes. I just copied the ZITI recipe. You said the recipe for the sauce would be with the recipe but I didn’t see it. I would love it and any other reference you made. Thank you

    Reply

  • Susan
    September 30, 2020

    Made this tonight. The flavour was very good but mine was a little dry. I used a box of 454g Barilla penne. I also used Kraft parmesan cheese rather than grated so that may have made a difference. I think next time I will half the recipe because it made so much.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      September 30, 2020

      Hello Susan, the cheese could have made the difference too. Maybe test it next time using less pasta and more sauce if you like.

      Reply

  • stephanie
    September 30, 2020

    The best baked ziti EVER!!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      September 30, 2020

      Thank you for that, Stephanie. That is so sweet of you!

      Reply

  • Annette
    September 30, 2020

    Lovvveeedd your Baked Ziti recipe ..

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      September 30, 2020

      Awesome! Thanks for your excellent review, Annette.

      Reply

  • Julia Popov
    September 29, 2020

    I am going to try this recipe tomorrow night, I’m sure it will be delicious just as all of your recipes are! Only issue I have is finding fresh basil… can I skip this step or use a different herb? Dry basil maybe??

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 29, 2020

      Hi Julia, I haven’t tested this to advise on the outcome but dried basil make work! If you experiment I would love to know how you like that.

      Reply

  • samantha
    September 29, 2020

    Can you make without meat? If so do I add remaining ingredients? What’s the recipe ingredients with out meat
    Thanks

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 29, 2020

      Hi Samantha, I haven’t tested this without meat to advise. If you experiment I would love to know how you like that!

      Reply

  • Alexandra Gutin
    September 29, 2020

    This is a great recipe. Made it and it is sooooo good, Natasha!
    Thank you, so much!

    btw – where are those oven mitts are from, they are so cute!

    Reply

  • Brooke
    September 28, 2020

    Made this for my family tonight and it is a new favorite! Thank you for all of your recipes! Everything we have tried has been amazing! You’re the best!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 28, 2020

      You’re welcome Brooke! I’m so glad you enjoyed this recipe!

      Reply

  • Kristen
    September 28, 2020

    Making this tonight! Cannot wait to try it! Love all your videos

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 28, 2020

      I really hope you love this recipe, Kristen!

      Reply

  • Nancy Hewel
    September 27, 2020

    The best Ziti we have ever had. Love all of your recipes , Thank you so much !!!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 27, 2020

      You’re welcome, Nancy! I’m so happy you’re enjoying our recipes!

      Reply

  • Alice
    September 26, 2020

    Omg i made this for my boyfriend and i and we loved it it was so creamy and good and i and i put it in my fridge so for dinner the next day we could have it again

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 26, 2020

      I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Alice! Thank you for the wonderful review!

      Reply

    • Judy St. Amour
      September 28, 2020

      I am getting your recipes and have saving them to try this fall. Your recipes are easy to understand and down to earth which I like very much. Thank you so much.

      Reply

      • Natashas Kitchen
        September 28, 2020

        You’re welcome, Judy! I’m so happy you’re enjoying our recipes!

        Reply

        • Dana
          October 5, 2020

          what can I use instead of ricotta?

          Reply

          • Natashas Kitchen
            October 5, 2020

            Hi Dana, cottage cheese may work. I haven’t tested this but one of our readers also made this with cream cheese to substitute for ricotta.

  • Carol
    September 26, 2020

    I love your casserole dish. Where can I find one?

    Reply

  • Gloria Cirelli
    September 26, 2020

    Can you freeze before its cooked.

    Reply

    • Natasha
      September 26, 2020

      Hi Gloria, yes, please see freezer ziti instructions in the post.

      Reply

  • Stephanie
    September 25, 2020

    So stink’n good! I substituted the ground beef for the turkey like you suggested and it was fantastic! Thanks!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 25, 2020

      I’m so happy you enjoyed that Stephanie!

      Reply

  • Sara Welch
    September 25, 2020

    This is my kind of comfort food! Adding this to my dinner line up next week; looks too good to pass up!

    Reply

    • Natasha
      September 26, 2020

      Hi Sara, I hope this pasta casserole becomes a new favorite for you!

      Reply

  • Tammy
    September 25, 2020

    Oh goodness this looks amazing…can’t wait to make it! Thanks for all of your yummy recipes and your hard work! Have a happy day

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 25, 2020

      I hope you love this recipe Tammy!

      Reply

  • Lily
    September 25, 2020

    This recipe was so easy and delicious it made for a perfect family dinner. We could not get enough of it!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 25, 2020

      I’m so happy you enjoyed this Lily!

      Reply

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