Indulgent Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage Recipe

Baked ziti with Italian sausage is a dish that wraps you in a warm, cheesy embrace with every mouthful. Imagine the gooey cheese melting into perfectly cooked pasta, with the rich and savory flavors of Italian sausage dancing together in perfect harmony. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a hug on a plate, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

The last time I made baked ziti with Italian sausage, my kitchen smelled like an Italian trattoria. My friends gathered around, eagerly awaiting this classic comfort food, and let’s just say the empty plates spoke volumes about how much they loved it. It’s ideal for those nights when you want something hearty and satisfying, and I promise it will leave everyone asking for seconds.

I once served this dish at a potluck, and let me tell you, the compliments flowed like wine at an Italian wedding.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ziti Pasta: Choose medium-sized ziti for that perfect al dente bite; it holds sauce beautifully.

• Italian Sausage: Use your favorite type—mild or spicy—to give the dish depth and flavor; remove casings before cooking.

• Marinara Sauce: A good jar can save time; look for one with minimal additives for authentic taste.

• Ricotta Cheese: Select whole-milk ricotta for creaminess; it adds richness and a delightful texture.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The more, the merrier! Mozzarella melts beautifully and creates that irresistible cheesy topping.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan elevates the flavor; sprinkle generously on top before baking.

• Fresh Basil: Adds a burst of freshness; chop some up to mix into the dish and save some for garnish.

• Onion and Garlic: Essential aromatics that create a flavorful base; sauté until fragrant and golden.

• Salt & Pepper: Season to taste throughout the cooking process for balanced flavors.

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

Let’s Make It Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Cook ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while preparing the sauce.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil followed by chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent and fragrant.

Add the Sausage: Remove casings from Italian sausage and crumble it into the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks—about 5-7 minutes.

Mix Sauce & Cheeses: Stir in marinara sauce until well combined. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with fresh basil, salt, and pepper until creamy.

Combine Ingredients in Baking Dish: In a large bowl, mix cooked ziti with sausage mixture. Layer half in a greased baking dish followed by dollops of ricotta mixture and half mozzarella on top.

Bake Until Golden & Bubbly: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Top your layered masterpiece with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese before baking uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Now that you’ve crafted your baked ziti with Italian sausage masterpiece, let it cool slightly before slicing into generous portions. You’ll find that each bite is filled with delightful layers of flavor that will make your heart sing!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the Italian sausage while boiling the pasta; this maximizes flavor and efficiency. Then combine everything with sauce and cheese in a baking dish for perfect results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap Italian sausage for ground turkey or add spinach for extra greens. Different cheeses can also elevate the dish—try adding mozzarella or ricotta for creamy goodness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through for best quality.

One time, I served this baked ziti at a family gathering, and my cousin declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Now, he won’t let me forget to make it every holiday!

FAQ

Can I use different types of pasta for baked ziti?

Absolutely! Penne or rigatoni work well if you want a twist on traditional ziti.

How do I prevent my baked ziti from being too dry?

Adding extra sauce before baking ensures your dish stays moist and flavorful throughout.

Can I prepare baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake—it makes meal prep easier!

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Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 6 portions 1x

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Description

Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of baked ziti with Italian sausage—a perfect blend of gooey cheese, hearty pasta, and aromatic spices. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, ideal for family dinners or potlucks. Layered with marinara sauce and creamy ricotta, it’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it an effortless option for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 15 oz whole-milk ricotta cheese
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Cook the ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
3. Crumble Italian sausage into the skillet; cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Stir in marinara sauce until well combined. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta with basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Layer half of the cooked ziti in a greased baking dish; add sausage mixture and dollops of ricotta on top followed by half of the mozzarella.
6. Add remaining ziti on top; finish with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: For a lighter version, substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey or add spinach for extra veggies. Feel free to use different types of pasta like penne or rigatoni for variety. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the oven or microwave.