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Baked Ziti in Air Fryer with creamy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, topped with golden crispy cheese and breadcrumbs

5-Min Baked Ziti in Air Fryer – Creamy, Cheesy Perfection

Ifra Shahnawaz
This Baked Ziti in Air Fryer is the fastest way to enjoy creamy, cheesy comfort food without turning on the oven. Tender pasta, rich marinara, and a golden, crispy cheese topping—ready in minutes and perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 3 serving
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • airfryer
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Air fryer-safe baking dish (cake pan or pie dish)
  • Spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked ziti pasta al dente
  • 1½ cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese divided
  • 2 tbsp panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp melted butter
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta: Boil ziti until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
    Al dente ziti pasta cooked for Baked Ziti in Air Fryer before mixing with sauce and cheese
  • Mix Everything: In a mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and half of the mozzarella and parmesan. Mix until well coated.
    Ziti pasta mixed with marinara sauce and cheese for creamy Baked Ziti in Air Fryer
  • Assemble the Dish: Lightly spray an air fryer-safe baking dish. Transfer pasta mixture into the dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan.
    Assembled Baked Ziti in Air Fryer topped with mozzarella, parmesan, and buttery panko breadcrumbs
  • Add Crunchy Topping: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and garlic powder. Sprinkle evenly over the top.
  • Air Fry: Preheat air fryer to 330°F (165°C). Air fry for 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    Baked Ziti in Air Fryer cooking with bubbly melted cheese and golden crispy topping
  • Rest & Serve: Let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving for best texture.

Notes

Notes

💡 Tips & Variations

  • Extra Cheesy: Add ricotta or cream cheese to the pasta mixture  
  • Meat Lover’s: Stir in cooked Italian sausage or ground beef  
  • Veggie Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers  
  • Spicy: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce  
 
🍽️ Serving Ideas
  • Serve with garlic bread or breadsticks  
  • Pair with a fresh green salad  
  • Enjoy as a quick solo dinner or small-family meal  
 
❄️ Storage & Reheating
  •  Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Air fry at 350°F for 3–5 minutes  
  • From Frozen: Cook at 300°F for 15–20 minutes, covered loosely if needed
Keyword Baked Ziti in Air Fryer