Gordon Ramsay Baked Ziti Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide to a Powerful, Creamy Pasta Bake

Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe with golden cheese and sausage in a white casserole dish

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July 15, 2025

Last Updated

July 15, 2025

Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe is the ultimate comfort food with a bold, flavorful twist. Picture layers of creamy tomato sauce, Italian sausage, gooey mozzarella, and tender pasta baked until golden and bubbly. This Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe isn’t just easy—it’s a total crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re juggling a full house or just craving something cozy, this dish delivers every time. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, reheat-friendly, and basically your new best friend on the dinner table. Trust me, this isn’t your average pasta bake—it’s next-level delicious.

Table of Contents

What is Gordon Ramsay Baked Ziti?

Gordon Ramsay baked ziti is a beautifully layered pasta dish featuring ziti noodles, a rich tomato-cream sauce, and plenty of melty cheese. What sets it apart? The use of Italian sausage (sweet or spicy—dealer’s choice) and fresh basil lifts the flavor out of “meh” territory and into “pass me thirds” mode. It’s cooked al dente, then baked until the top gets that irresistible crispy-cheesy crust. It’s a go-to for family dinners, lazy Sundays, or when you just need something hearty and unapologetically satisfying.

Reasons to Try Gordon Ramsay Baked Ziti Recipe

Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe is practically foolproof—even if your kitchen style leans more “microwave master” than Michelin star. No shouting required, promise. It’s packed with flavor: savory sausage, rich tomato-garlic sauce, and gooey, creamy cheese that melts into every bite. What’s not to love? It’s perfect for prepping ahead, freezes like a champ, and tastes just as amazing reheated. Picky kids? They’ll go back for seconds. Got a hungry crew on game night? This’ll feed them all. Leftovers that actually get eaten? Yep, this dish is the real MVP of weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.

Ingredients Needed to Make Gordon Ramsay Baked Ziti Recipe

Ingredients for Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe on a marble counter — All the fresh and flavorful ingredients you’ll need for baked ziti

The Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe isn’t just about pasta and sauce—it’s about building layers of flavor that taste like they simmered all day (even if you whipped it up in under two hours). Each ingredient has a job to do, and together, they create a rich, comforting dish that feels like a hug in casserole form.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Ziti pasta (1 lb): This tubular pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully. Don’t substitute penne unless you’re in a pinch—it’s not the same. Ziti’s smooth surface and hollow center are key to that saucy, cheesy bite in every forkful. Need help with pasta swaps? Check out our guide on Gordon Ramsay Turkey Pasta for alternate ideas.
Italian sausage (1½ lbs): Choose either spicy or sweet, depending on your preference. For maximum flavor, get sausage in casings and remove them yourself. This gives you crumbles with just the right amount of fat and spice to elevate the sauce.
Fresh garlic (4 cloves, minced): Don’t skimp here. Fresh garlic adds a depth that powdered just can’t match. It’s the aromatic base that kicks off the whole dish.
Crushed tomatoes (28 oz can): Use a high-quality brand. You’re building the base of your sauce here, so it’s worth going for the good stuff. Avoid flavored varieties—you want to season this your way.
Salt, sugar, and red pepper flakes: These might seem simple, but they balance and brighten the sauce. Sugar cuts acidity, salt enhances everything, and the pepper flakes? They give the ziti just the right amount of heat.
Heavy cream (1 cup): This is what makes the Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe feel so indulgent. It transforms your standard tomato sauce into a creamy, velvety dream.
Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano Reggiano (⅓ cup + 3 tablespoons, grated): You want sharp, salty, and nutty flavor here. These cheeses melt well and add that signature savory finish Ramsay’s recipes are known for. Curious how cheese can change a dish? See how it’s used in this Gordon Ramsay Cauliflower Cheese recipe.
Fresh basil (⅓ cup chopped, plus more for garnish): This isn’t just garnish—it adds a fresh, peppery brightness that cuts through the richness of the dish.
Mozzarella cheese (8 oz, shredded): Use whole milk mozzarella for maximum meltiness and that picture-perfect cheese pull. Pre-shredded works in a pinch, but freshly shredded always wins on flavor.

Instructions to Make Gordon Ramsay Baked Ziti Recipe

Ready to turn your kitchen into a five-star Italian trattoria? This Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe might look like a restaurant dish, but it’s surprisingly easy when you break it down step-by-step. Here’s how to make this cheesy, sausage-packed, crave-worthy comfort dish from scratch—with all the little tips that make a big difference.

Step 1: Boil the Pasta (Just Under Al Dente)

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in 1 lb of ziti pasta and cook it until just under al dente—about 7 minutes. Why undercook it? Because it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta will turn to mush, and that’s a big no in this dish. Once cooked, drain and return it to the pot. Set it aside while you prep the sauce.

Kitchen Tip: If you’ve got extra pasta on hand, use it to make our easy Gordon Ramsay Turkey Pasta next time—great for midweek meals.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, crumble 1½ lbs of Italian sausage (casings removed) into the hot surface. Stir and break it up with a wooden spoon until it’s browned and cooked through—about 5–6 minutes. Once it’s golden and sizzling, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate.

Pro tip: Leave about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pan for flavor. If your sausage is lean, feel free to add a tablespoon of olive oil to help the garlic cook.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Turn the heat to low and add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the same pan. Stir constantly so it doesn’t brown (or burn!). After about a minute, your kitchen should smell amazing—that’s your cue to move to the next step.

Step 4: Build the Tomato Sauce

Pour in a 28-oz can of crushed tomatoes, then stir in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1½ teaspoons of sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Let that bubble gently on low heat for 10 minutes. The sauce should thicken just slightly while the flavors develop.

If you’re a fan of hearty comfort soups, this sauce base is similar to the one used in our Gordon Ramsay Roasted Tomato Soup.

Step 5: Cream It Up

Now comes the rich, indulgent part. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, ⅓ cup of grated Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano, and your browned sausage. Add in ⅓ cup of fresh chopped basil, and mix well. The sauce will become creamy, meaty, and incredibly fragrant—this is what sets the Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe apart from all the rest.

Step 6: Combine Sauce and Pasta

Pour the creamy sausage sauce into the pot of cooked ziti. Stir gently to coat every noodle without breaking them. Make sure everything is evenly mixed—no lonely pockets of sauce or dry pasta allowed.

Step 7: Layer in the Baking Dish

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spoon in half of the ziti mixture. Sprinkle evenly with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1½ tablespoons of Pecorino Romano. Add the remaining ziti on top and finish it off with the rest of the mozzarella and cheese.

Want more baked recipes that master the golden-cheese topping? Try our Gordon Ramsay Shepherd’s Pie for another comforting oven favorite.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Preheat your oven to 425°F and position the rack in the middle. Bake the ziti uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.

Sprinkle with extra fresh basil before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

What to Serve with Gordon Ramsay Baked Ziti Recipe

Plated Gordon Ramsay baked ziti with salad and garlic bread — Serve your baked ziti with a salad and garlic bread for a complete meal

The Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe is a complete comfort meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes it truly unforgettable. For a little balance, a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and cuts through the richness of the cheese and sausage.

If you’re looking for a heartier side, you can’t go wrong with warm garlic bread—or better yet, serve it with Gordon Ramsay Braised Cabbage for a cozy veggie option that complements the ziti’s bold flavor.

Want to keep the Italian vibes going? Round out your meal with a light dessert like Gordon Ramsay Panna Cotta or a slice of Gordon Ramsay Tiramisu. These sweet treats bring just the right amount of indulgence to finish things off.

Whatever you pair it with, this Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe is guaranteed to be the star of the table.

Key Tips for Making Gordon Ramsay Baked Ziti Recipe

Here’s the thing—this Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe is pretty simple, but a few smart tips can make it truly next-level. First, undercook your pasta slightly. It finishes baking in the oven, and no one likes soggy noodles. Second, use high-quality sausage. The flavor of the whole dish leans heavily on it, so go with something bold and fresh.

Another big one? Use freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded mozzarella might save you a minute, but it doesn’t melt quite the same way. Same goes for the Pecorino—grate it yourself for that sharp, nutty punch.

And don’t skip the basil! Stir some into the sauce and sprinkle more on top after baking. It adds freshness and balance to the rich, creamy layers.

One final tip: let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. It sets up nicely and makes for cleaner servings. These little tricks take the Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe from “really good” to “whoa—did you really make this?”

Storage and Reheating Tips for Gordon Ramsay Baked Ziti Recipe

One of the best things about the Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe? It’s just as good the next day—maybe even better. The flavors continue to mingle overnight, making leftovers something you’ll actually look forward to.

To store it: Let the baked ziti cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To freeze it: Wrap the whole dish (or individual portions) in foil, then place in a freezer bag. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.

To reheat: Cover with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 20–25 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re in a rush, individual portions can be microwaved—just use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to keep things moist.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or saving a slice for later, this Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe holds up like a champ.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying dish that feels a little bit elevated without requiring chef-level skills, the Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe delivers every time. It’s flavorful, hearty, and honestly, just plain fun to make. From the rich, creamy sauce to the bubbling, golden cheese—this dish is the definition of comfort food done right.

Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting friends, or just meal-prepping for the week, this baked ziti is one you’ll want in your regular rotation. And if you’re already a fan of bold, flavor-packed meals like Gordon Ramsay Beef Wellington or his Shepherd’s Pie, this one fits right in.

Trust us—once you’ve tried this Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever made pasta without it.

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FAQs

Which pasta is best for baked ziti?

Ziti is ideal because its smooth, tube shape catches the sauce and holds up well in the oven. If you’re in a pinch, penne is a solid backup, but ziti gives that classic bite the Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe is known for.

What is Taylor Street baked ziti?

Taylor Street baked ziti is a Chicago-style version typically featuring ricotta and sometimes ground beef instead of sausage. It’s delicious, but the Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe leans more Italian with a rich sausage cream sauce.

Does Italy have baked ziti?

Italy doesn’t traditionally serve baked ziti in the American style. Italian baked pasta dishes (like “pasta al forno”) usually include béchamel or ragù. The Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe is more of a modern comfort spin than a classic Italian dish.

What’s the difference between baked ziti and baked rigatoni?

Mostly the pasta shape. Rigatoni has ridges and a slightly larger diameter, which holds more sauce. Ziti is smoother and gives a more uniform bite. In the Gordon Ramsay baked ziti recipe, ziti creates that creamy, layered texture we all love.