Irresistible Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of baked ziti with Italian sausage wafting through the air, filling your home with warmth and comfort. Imagine layers of gooey cheese, savory sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta coming together in a rich tomato sauce that makes you feel like you’re dining at a cozy Italian trattoria.

This dish is ideal for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or when you want to impress friends without breaking a sweat. You’ll find that each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor, and I can almost guarantee that it will become a staple in your kitchen.

I still remember the first time I made this baked ziti with Italian sausage; my family devoured it in minutes and insisted on seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ziti Pasta: Choose medium-sized ziti for the perfect balance between texture and flavor absorption.

• Italian Sausage: Use mild or spicy according to your preference; the sausage gives the dish its rich heartiness.

• Marinara Sauce: Opt for high-quality jarred sauce or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous—it’s worth it!

• Ricotta Cheese: A must-have for creaminess; I love mixing in some herbs for added flavor.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Choose whole milk mozzarella for that dreamy stretchiness we all crave.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds a nutty richness—don’t skimp on this one!

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil before serving elevates the dish and brings freshness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures an even bake and bubbly cheese on top.

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and crumbly; this should take about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will be irresistible.

Mix Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sautéed sausage, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella. Stir until everything is coated evenly.

Layer It Up!: Spread half of the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Finish with the rest of the pasta mixture on top.

Bake to Perfection!: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. The cheese should be melted beautifully.

Now it’s time to serve up your masterpiece! Let it cool for a few minutes before diving in—it’ll be hard to resist those cheesy layers!

Enjoy every cheesy bite of your baked ziti with Italian sausage! It’s comfort food at its finest!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the Italian sausage until browned. Meanwhile, boil the pasta for slightly less than al dente. Mix everything in a baking dish, layer with cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions.

Sometimes I think my oven has a personality—especially when it comes to baked ziti! My friends always rave about this dish, saying it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.

FAQ

Can I use other types of meat in baked ziti with Italian sausage?

Absolutely! You can substitute with ground beef, turkey, or even chicken for a lighter option.

How do I make my baked ziti extra cheesy?

To achieve cheesiness, mix ricotta cheese into the pasta and layer mozzarella on top before baking.

Can I prepare baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate overnight; just bake when you’re ready to serve.

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Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage

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Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage is a comforting, cheesy dish that brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen. Layers of tender ziti pasta, savory Italian sausage, and rich marinara sauce come together with gooey mozzarella and creamy ricotta for an irresistible meal. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends, this dish is easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy!

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 4 cups marinara sauce
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until crumbly (5-7 minutes).
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sautéed sausage, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella; mix well.
5. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan, then add the rest of the pasta mixture.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

• Author: DANIEL LAWSON
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg