Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of baked ziti wafting through your kitchen. This classic dish brings a warm, cozy feeling that makes any day a little brighter. Let’s explore some amazing baked ziti recipes that skip the ricotta but keep all the flavor and satisfaction!
Classic Cheesy Baked Ziti
This classic version is a crowd-pleaser that combines rich marinara sauce, hearty pasta, and a melty blend of cheeses. Picture layers of gooey mozzarella and sharp cheddar that create a delightful pull with every bite.
To make this dish, you’ll need ziti pasta, your favorite marinara sauce, a mix of mozzarella and cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs. What makes this recipe special is how simple it is—just cook the pasta, mix everything together, and bake! It’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Vegetable-Packed Baked Ziti

Easy Vegetarian Baked Ziti Recipe (Veggie-Packed!) from Live Eat Learn
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 1 ч
If you’re looking for a healthier twist, this vegetable-packed version is just what you need! With a rainbow of veggies like spinach, bell peppers, and zucchini, it’s not only colorful but also full of nutrients.
Start with ziti pasta and layer it with your favorite marinara sauce, sautéed vegetables, and a generous amount of mozzarella cheese. The secret to its popularity? The way the veggies blend seamlessly into the pasta, adding flavor and texture that everyone will love—even picky eaters! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra greens.
Pesto Chicken Baked Ziti

Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake from Dishing Out Health
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Sun dried tomatoes, skinless chicken breasts, fresh mozzarella cheese, heavy cream, red pepper flakes Total Time: 45 min.

Chicken Pesto Pasta Bake from Jar Of Lemons
Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: Penne pasta, summer squash, spinach basil pesto, grape tomatoes, avocado oil Total Time: 45 min.

Pesto Chicken Bake from Girl With The Iron Cast
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: Shredded chicken breast, pasta, red pepper flakes, parmesan, store bought Total Time: 35 min.
For a burst of flavor, try this pesto chicken baked ziti! The combination of tender chicken, ziti pasta, and fragrant basil pesto creates a dish that’s both fresh and comforting.
Simply mix cooked chicken with ziti, pesto, and marinara sauce, then top it all off with mozzarella cheese before baking. This recipe shines because the pesto elevates the ziti, adding a unique twist that makes it stand out from traditional versions. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun gathering with friends!
Spicy Sausage & Pepper Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti from Once Upon a Chef
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Sweet italian sausage, ziti noodles, heavy cream, red pepper flakes, mozzarella cheese Total Time: 1 hr 30 min.

Recipe: Italian Sausage and Peppers Baked Ziti from The Kitchn
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Penne pasta, ricotta cheese, bell peppers, marinara sauce, provolone cheese

Baked Ziti with Sausage from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.5. Ingredients: Mild italian sausage, ricotta cheese, spaghetti sauce, ziti pasta, egg Total Time: 1 hr.
If you’re craving a little heat, this spicy sausage and pepper baked ziti is your ticket to flavor town! With zesty Italian sausage, bell peppers, and a kick of red pepper flakes, this dish brings the heat without losing that comforting baked ziti vibe.
Start by cooking the sausage and sautéing the peppers, then mix everything with ziti and marinara sauce. Top it off with a generous layer of cheese and bake until bubbly. What makes this recipe popular is the perfect balance of spice and creaminess, creating a dish that’s both exciting and satisfying. It’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!