Baked Ziti With Three Cheeses

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple, look no further than this Baked Ziti With Three Cheeses. This recipe brings together tender ziti pasta, a savory ground turkey sauce, and a luscious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone cheeses, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s a family-friendly meal that feels special enough for gatherings but easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s packed with flavor and texture, making every bite a delight.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Baked Ziti With Three Cheeses is one of those recipes that checks every box. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap in your favorite herbs or cheeses without losing its classic charm. The combination of ground turkey and three different cheeses provides the perfect balance of lean protein and indulgent creaminess. It’s also a great crowd-pleaser — whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a potluck, everyone will be asking for seconds. Even better? It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy leftovers or meal prep with ease. Once you try this dish, it’ll quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.

What You’ll Gather

• 12 ounces ziti pasta – tubular pasta that holds sauce perfectly
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing and flavor
• 1 pound ground turkey – a lean, flavorful protein base
• 1 medium onion, chopped – adds sweetness and depth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential aromatic punch
• 24 ounces marinara sauce – rich tomato base
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese – creamy and slightly tangy
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – melty and gooey
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – nutty, sharp accent
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – classic Italian herb
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – sweet, fragrant herb
• Salt and pepper to taste – to enhance all flavors
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese – adds a smoky, mild sharpness

Equipment at a Glance

• Large pot – for boiling the ziti
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook the turkey and aromatics
• 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for layering and baking
• Mixing bowl – to combine cheeses and seasoning
• Colander – to drain cooked pasta
• Spoon or spatula – for stirring and layering

Baked Ziti With Three Cheeses, Made Easy

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of ziti pasta and cook until just al dente—about 8 to 9 minutes. You want it slightly firm because it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the 1 pound of ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon dried basil. Pour in the 24 ounces of marinara sauce and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 3: Mix the Cheeses

In a medium bowl, combine the 15 ounces of ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Season lightly with salt and pepper. This creamy mixture will add a luscious texture and rich flavor to the baked ziti.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In your baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti pasta, then dollop half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta. Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the top. Repeat with the remaining pasta, ricotta mixture, and meat sauce. Finally, sprinkle the entire dish with 1 cup shredded provolone cheese for a wonderful smoky finish.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown on top. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Seasonal Spins

• Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a veggie boost in spring and summer.
• Swap ground turkey for ground lamb or beef for a richer flavor in colder months.
• Mix in fresh basil or parsley right before baking for a burst of herbal freshness.
• Top with toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs for extra crunch and texture.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta before baking – it should be just al dente to avoid mushiness.
• Using too much sauce – the dish should be moist but not swimming in sauce.
• Skipping the resting time after baking – this helps the cheese set and makes serving easier.
• Not seasoning the ricotta mixture – a little salt and pepper go a long way to balance its creaminess.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This Baked Ziti With Three Cheeses is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, and bake as directed—adding an extra 10 minutes if baking straight from cold. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave.

Ask the Chef

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While ziti is classic, other tubular pasta like penne or rigatoni work just as well because they hold sauce nicely. Just adjust the cooking time to keep it al dente.

Can I substitute the ground turkey with another protein?

Yes, you can swap the ground turkey for ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives depending on your preference. Just be sure the protein is cooked through before baking.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes into the sauce or use a spicy marinara. You can also add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the ricotta cheese mixture.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave in short bursts with a damp paper towel on top to retain moisture. Adding a splash of water or extra marinara sauce before reheating helps keep it moist.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Try the Cheesy Meatball Ziti for a twist on baked pasta with homemade meatballs.
• For a lighter, creamy option, check out the Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake that’s bursting with fresh herb flavors.
• Serve alongside Roasted Garlic Cheese Stuffed Bread for an irresistible, cheesy side that complements any pasta dish.

Ready to Cook?

Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to dive into this hearty, cheesy, and comforting Baked Ziti With Three Cheeses. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want a cozy dinner that hits all the right notes, this recipe delivers every time. The combination of savory turkey, melty cheeses, and fragrant herbs baked until golden is simply irresistible. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!

Baked ziti is one of those timeless dishes that brings people together. The creamy cheese layers paired with rich tomato sauce and tender pasta create a dish that’s satisfying and memorable. Once you taste this version featuring three cheeses and lean turkey, you’ll understand why it’s destined to be a regular on your table. Serve it with a crisp salad or some garlic bread, and you have a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!

Share on Pinterest