Baked Ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Maggiano’s version takes this beloved pasta bake to the next level with rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella that create an irresistible combination of flavors and textures.
We love how this recipe balances hearty ingredients with simple preparation, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or want to impress guests with a crowd-pleaser, this Baked Ziti inspired by Maggiano’s will quickly become a staple in our kitchen. Let’s dive into making this delicious dish that’s both satisfying and easy to master.
Ingredients
To recreate Maggiano’s Baked Ziti at home, we need to gather fresh, high-quality ingredients that build the deep flavors and creamy texture this dish is famous for. Below, we’ve broken down the essentials into categories to keep our prep organized and efficient.
Pasta and Cheese
We start with the backbone of our dish: perfectly cooked pasta and a blend of rich cheeses that melt into a luscious finish.
- 1 pound ziti pasta (or penne as a substitute)
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese (for creamy texture)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for that signature ooey-gooey melt)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (to add a savory, nutty finish)
Meat and Sauce
Our sauce combines hearty meat with a robust tomato base that simmers to perfection.
- 1 pound Italian sweet sausage, casings removed (adds flavor depth)
- 4 cups marinara sauce (choose a high-quality or homemade variety)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (to enhance aroma and flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (softens and sweetens the sauce)
Herbs and Spices
These fresh and dried seasonings bring balance and authentic Italian aroma to our baked ziti.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh basil | ¼ cup chopped | Adds sweet, fragrant notes |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | Brings classic Italian flavor |
| Red pepper flakes | ¼ teaspoon | Adds subtle heat (optional) |
| Salt | To taste | Enhances all other flavors |
| Black pepper | To taste | Balances sweetness and acidity |
Tip: Using fresh herbs like basil right before serving keeps the dish vibrant and aromatic.
With these ingredients in place we are ready to build the layers of flavor that define our take on Maggiano’s Baked Ziti—a comforting dish packed with cheesy richness, savory meat, and herbed tomato goodness.
Equipment Needed
To make Baked Ziti Maggiano’s Recipe successfully, gathering the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and perfect results every time. Here’s what we need:
- Large pot
We use this to boil the ziti pasta until al dente. Make sure it’s big enough to allow the pasta plenty of room to cook evenly.
- Colander or strainer
Essential for draining the cooked pasta without losing any.
- Large skillet or sauté pan
We’ll brown the Italian sausage, sauté onions, and garlic here. A wide pan helps in even cooking and blending flavors.
- Mixing bowls
Separate bowls let us combine ricotta cheese with seasoning, and mix pasta with the sauce separately before layering.
- 9×13 inch baking dish
This is the key vessel for assembling and baking our ziti casserole. Choose a dish that provides even heat to melt the cheeses perfectly.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Ideal for mixing ingredients gently to keep the pasta intact while incorporating cheeses and sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons
Precision helps us achieve the classic balance of flavors Maggiano’s recipe is known for.
- Aluminum foil
We use this to cover the baking dish for the first part of baking to prevent excessive browning.
- Oven mitts
Safety first when removing the hot dish from the oven.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot | Boil ziti pasta |
| Colander or strainer | Drain cooked pasta |
| Large skillet | Brown sausage, sauté vegetables |
| Mixing bowls | Combine cheese and mix pasta with sauce |
| 9×13 inch baking dish | Assemble and bake the ziti |
| Wooden spoon/spatula | Stir ingredients without breaking pasta |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Ensure accurate quantities |
| Aluminum foil | Cover dish to control browning |
| Oven mitts | Handle hot baking dish safely |
Using this equipment, we control each step from cooking to assembling and baking, creating the signature rich texture and cheesy perfection Maggiano’s Baked Ziti delivers.
Preparation
Let’s begin by preparing each component carefully to build the layers of flavor and texture that make Baked Ziti Maggiano’s Recipe so irresistible.
Prepping the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water, add 1 tablespoon salt, and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Add 1 pound of ziti pasta to the boiling water.
- Cook the pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Drain the pasta using a colander but reserve 1 cup of pasta water for the sauce.
- Toss the pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to keep it from sticking while we prepare the sauce.
| Step | Action | Time / Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Boil water | Add 1 tbsp salt to large pot | Until rolling boil |
| Cook pasta | Cook ziti pasta al dente | 8-10 mins |
| Drain & reserve | Save 1 cup pasta water | – |
Preparing the Sauce
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent.
- Introduce 3 cloves minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Crumble and brown 1 pound Italian sweet sausage, breaking it up evenly as it cooks for 6-7 minutes.
- Pour in 4 cups marinara sauce, stirring to combine.
- Season the sauce with 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, and salt to taste.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes on low heat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
“A rich and well-simmered sauce is the heart of this dish, bringing together the savory sausage and robust tomato flavors.“
Grating and Preparing Cheese
- Grate 2 cups mozzarella cheese and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine 15 ounces ricotta cheese with 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil to the cheese mixture for a fragrant herbal note.
- Stir gently until well blended.
| Cheese | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Mozzarella | 2 cups | Grated |
| Ricotta | 15 ounces | Mixed with Parmesan |
| Parmesan | 1 cup | Grated |
| Fresh basil | 1/4 cup | Chopped, added to cheese |
With the pasta cooked al dente, the sauce simmered to perfection, and the cheese mixture ready, we are perfectly set to assemble our iconic Baked Ziti Maggiano’s Recipe.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of preparing Maggiano’s Baked Ziti, ensuring every layer bursts with authentic Italian flavor and creamy richness.
Cooking the Meat Sauce
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Crumble and add Italian sweet sausage (about 1 pound) to the skillet. Brown the sausage thoroughly, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Pour in 3 cups of marinara sauce and stir well to combine with the browned sausage.
- Season with 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce uncovered on low heat for 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.
“The secret to a robust meat sauce lies in properly browning the sausage and allowing the sauce to simmer, unleashing its rich aromas.”
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Cook 1 pound of ziti pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water before draining the ziti.
- Drain the pasta and immediately transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the meat sauce to the pasta.
- Pour in reserved pasta water gradually to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
- Toss gently to combine ensuring every piece is coated with the flavorful meat sauce.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ziti Pasta | 1 pound | Base ingredient cooked al dente |
| Reserved Pasta Water | ½ cup | To loosen sauce and bind pasta |
| Meat Sauce | 3 cups | Flavorful coating for pasta |
Layering the Ziti and Cheese
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
- Add half of the sauced ziti in an even layer.
- Spoon dollops of ricotta mixture (combining 1 ½ cups ricotta, ½ cup grated Parmesan, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil) over the pasta.
- Sprinkle 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella evenly over the ricotta.
- Repeat with the remaining sauced ziti, followed by the remaining ricotta mixture.
- Top the final layer with the remaining mozzarella and an additional ¼ cup Parmesan.
- Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 25 minutes then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Baking Directions
To achieve the perfect Baked Ziti with the signature creamy texture and melty cheese that defines Maggiano’s version, precise baking steps are essential. Let’s walk through the process to ensure our dish comes out bubbly and golden every time.
Preheating the Oven
Before assembling the dish, we need to set the stage for baking:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the ziti to cook evenly and the cheese to melt beautifully without burning.
- Position the oven rack in the middle to ensure balanced heat distribution.
Pro tip: Preheating the oven fully ensures our Baked Ziti cooks uniformly and develops that irresistible golden crust.
Baking the Ziti
Now that the oven is ready, let’s assemble and bake the ziti:
- Transfer the layered ziti from our preparation into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top to create that signature cheesy blanket.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella to add a sharp and savory finish.
- Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too fast while allowing the heat to penetrate.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to brown the cheese and bubble the sauce.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 375°F (190°C) | – | Middle rack placement |
| Covered baking | 375°F (190°C) | 25 minutes | Prevents premature browning |
| Uncovered baking | 375°F (190°C) | 10-15 minutes | Achieves golden bubbly top |
Checking for Doneness
Our final check ensures the ziti is perfectly baked:
- Look for a golden brown crust on top with bubbling edges of sauce.
- Insert a fork into the center to ensure the pasta is heated through and tender.
- The cheese should be melty and slightly browned, not rubbery or overly dry.
- If the center feels cold or the cheese isn’t bubbling, continue baking uncovered in 5-minute increments.
As Julia Child famously said, “No one is born a great cook, one learns by doing.” Checking carefully ensures our Baked Ziti delivers authentic Italian comfort in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Baked Ziti Maggiano’s Recipe experience, we recommend pairing it with complementary sides and beverages that enhance its rich, cheesy flavors and robust tomato sauce. Serving thoughtfully creates a balanced meal that satisfies every craving.
Perfect Side Dishes
- Crisp Caesar Salad: The fresh crunch and tangy dressing cut through the richness of the baked ziti. Toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan shavings.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread with a crisp crust is a classic accompaniment. Use a baguette sliced thickly, spread with garlic butter, and toast until golden.
- Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms seasoned with Italian herbs offer a healthy, flavorful contrast.
Ideal Beverage Pairings
| Beverage Type | Description | Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Red Wine | Medium-bodied wines like Chianti or Sangiovese enhance tomato-based dishes with balanced acidity. | Serve slightly below room temp |
| Sparkling Water | Refreshing palate cleanser that complements the richness without overpowering flavors. | Add a wedge of lemon or lime |
| Italian Soda | Fruity, lightly sweetened sodas like blood orange or lemon provide a sweet counterpoint. | Serve chilled with ice |
Serving Temperature and Presentation
- Serve Baked Ziti Maggiano’s Recipe hot out of the oven for the best cheese pull and bubbling sauce.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes post-baking; this allows flavors to settle and eases portioning.
- Use a wide spatula to scoop generous portions ensuring each serving has ample cheese and sauce layers.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan to add vibrant color and aroma.
“Pairing the right sides and drinks with our Baked Ziti lets the authentic Italian-American flavors shine while making every meal an occasion.”
Storage Tips for Leftovers
- Transfer leftovers into airtight containers.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for 15-20 minutes to maintain moisture and melt the cheese perfectly.
By keeping these Serving Suggestions in mind, we ensure that every time we enjoy our Baked Ziti Maggiano’s Recipe, it delivers memorable comforting satisfaction with every bite.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Baked Ziti Maggiano’s Recipe in advance is a fantastic way to save time while still delivering a rich and satisfying meal. Here are our top tips to ensure your dish maintains its flavor and texture when made ahead.
1. Assemble but Do Not Bake
- Prepare the entire casserole according to the recipe steps.
- Layer the pasta, meat sauce, and cheese mixture in your 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store the unbaked casserole in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
2. Freezing for Longer Storage
- For extended make-ahead options, freeze the unbaked assembled casserole.
- Wrap securely with two layers of aluminum foil or use a heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
3. Baking from Refrigerated or Frozen
| Storage Method | Baking Instructions |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated (Up to 24h) | Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove wrap and cover with foil. Bake for 35-40 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden. |
| Frozen (Up to 3 months) | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Follow refrigerated baking instructions. |
4. Saving Sauce and Cheese Mixture Separately
- Cook the sausage and marinara sauce in advance.
- Store sauce and cheese mixtures in separate airtight containers.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Assemble and bake just before serving to maintain maximum freshness and texture.
5. Reheating Leftover Baked Ziti
- Portion leftovers into oven-safe containers.
- Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Alternatively, microwave individual servings on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
“Proper storage and timing make Baked Ziti Maggiano’s Recipe not only a comfort meal but also a convenient choice for busy schedules.”
By following these Make-Ahead Tips, we ensure every bite of our baked ziti retains that authentic, cheesy richness and robust flavor synonymous with Maggiano’s beloved classic.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage and reheating of Baked Ziti Maggiano’s Recipe ensure that every bite stays as flavorful and comforting as fresh. Follow these steps to maintain its rich texture and cheesy, saucy goodness.
Storing Leftovers
- Cool Completely: Allow the baked ziti to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer leftovers into airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and avoid odors from other foods.
- Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked ziti in a freezer-safe dish or container for up to 3 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Max Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Airtight container | 3 days | Best consumed within this period |
| Freezing | Freezer-safe container | 3 months | Wrap with foil or plastic wrap for extra protection |
Reheating Baked Ziti
To preserve the creamy texture and keep the cheese from drying out when reheating, we recommend the following methods:
Oven Method (Best for Maintaining Texture)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the leftover baked ziti in an oven-safe dish.
- Add a splash of water or reserved pasta water to keep it moist.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes if refrigerated, or 35–40 minutes if frozen.
- Remove foil during the last 5 minutes to re-melt the cheese and create a bubbly surface.
Stovetop Method (Quicker Option)
- Place the baked ziti in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add a few tablespoons of water to avoid drying.
- Cover with a lid and heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the lid and cook 1–2 minutes to reduce excess liquid.
Microwave Method (For Convenience)
- Place a portion of baked ziti on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel.
- Heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Check for even heating; repeat in 30-second intervals if needed.
“Tip: Always reheat Baked Ziti Maggiano’s on medium heat with moisture to retain the signature creamy and cheesy experience.”
Using these storage and reheating tips, we keep the flavors vibrant and the texture luscious, making our Baked Ziti Maggiano’s Recipe ready to enjoy whenever the craving hits.
Conclusion
Baked Ziti Maggiano’s style brings together rich flavors and comforting textures that make every meal feel special. With the right ingredients, equipment, and careful layering, this dish becomes a reliable favorite for any occasion.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting friends, this recipe offers both simplicity and delicious results. By following these tips and techniques, we’re confident you’ll create a baked ziti that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of authentic Italian flavor every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Maggiano’s Baked Ziti?
You need ziti pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, Italian sweet sausage, marinara sauce, garlic, onion, fresh basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes to create Maggiano’s Baked Ziti.
What equipment do I need to make Baked Ziti?
Essential tools include a large pot for boiling pasta, colander, skillet for browning sausage, mixing bowls, a 9×13-inch baking dish, wooden spoon or silicone spatula, measuring cups and spoons, aluminum foil, and oven mitts.
How do I prepare the meat sauce for Baked Ziti?
Sauté onions and garlic, brown the Italian sweet sausage, then simmer everything with marinara sauce and seasonings like basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
How should I layer Baked Ziti before baking?
Start with a layer of meat sauce and pasta, add a layer of ricotta and Parmesan mixture, then top with mozzarella. Repeat layers if desired, finish with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
What is the ideal baking temperature and time?
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake covered with foil for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Can I prepare Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble Baked Ziti and refrigerate it for later baking. This makes it convenient for busy schedules without sacrificing flavor.
How do I store leftover Baked Ziti?
Cool completely, store in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze in a proper container.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover Baked Ziti?
Reheat in the oven covered with foil, on the stovetop over low heat, or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist.
What are good side dishes to serve with Baked Ziti?
Try a crisp Caesar salad, warm garlic bread, or oven-roasted vegetables. These complement the rich flavors of the dish well.
What drinks pair well with Baked Ziti?
Medium-bodied red wines, sparkling water, and fruity Italian sodas are excellent drink choices to enhance your Baked Ziti meal.