Irresistible Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage Recipe

Baked ziti with Italian sausage is the ultimate comfort food, enveloping your taste buds in layers of cheesy goodness, savory sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking when dinner will be served.

This dish holds a special place in my heart and stomach; it’s one of those meals that brings family together, creating laughter-filled evenings and blissful memories. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a festive gathering, baked ziti with Italian sausage is the perfect centerpiece to spark joy and appetites alike.

I still remember the first time I made this baked ziti with Italian sausage; my friends couldn’t get enough and begged for seconds.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ziti Pasta: Choose medium-sized ziti for the perfect bite; they hold sauce wonderfully.

• Italian Sausage: Use mild or spicy based on your preference; fresh is always best for robust flavor.

• Marinara Sauce: A store-bought variety is fine, but homemade adds a personal touch to elevate the dish.

• Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This melts into bubbly perfection—don’t skimp here; it’s all about that cheesy goodness.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan lends a nutty flavor and adds an elegant finish to the dish.

• Fresh Basil or Parsley: For garnish, adding freshness and color to your baked masterpiece.

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

Let’s Make It Together

Follow these steps to create your own version of this delightful dish.

Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, gather all ingredients on your countertop to streamline the cooking process.

Cook the Ziti Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook ziti until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Sauté the Italian Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when it releases its savory aroma—this should take about 5-7 minutes.

Add Marinara Sauce to the Sausage: Stir in marinara sauce until well combined with the sausage. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes; allow those flavors to meld beautifully.

Mix Ricotta and Mozzarella Cheeses Together: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella. Mix until smooth; this will create that creamy layer everyone loves in baked ziti.

Layer Your Dish**: In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Then add half of the cooked ziti followed by half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layers finishing with meat sauce topped by remaining mozzarella cheese.

Finally, cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Once time’s up, remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Now you can let that tantalizing aroma fill your home while you eagerly await serving time!

Digging into baked ziti with Italian sausage is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket after being outside in winter’s chill—it’s pure comfort! Enjoy every cheesy bite surrounded by loved ones; trust me, they won’t forget this one anytime soon!

You Must Know

• This baked ziti with Italian sausage is a crowd-pleaser, offering layers of cheesy goodness and savory flavors
• The aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table
• Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, it’s a recipe you’ll want on repeat

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the sausage until browned, then prepare the pasta while the sauce simmers. Combine everything into a baking dish for optimal flavor absorption and even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out Italian sausage for ground turkey or add veggies like spinach and mushrooms. Experimenting keeps the dish exciting and tailored to your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

• To prevent sticking, ensure your pasta is al dente before baking
• Use fresh herbs for added flavor and color
• Always let the baked ziti rest for a few minutes before serving; it helps with slicing!

Cooking this baked ziti with Italian sausage brings back memories of my family’s Sunday dinners, where laughter filled the air as we dug into this cheesy delight together.

FAQ

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! Ground beef or turkey can work well instead of Italian sausage.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Substitute sausage with a mix of your favorite vegetables or plant-based meat alternatives.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it earlier in the day and bake when ready to serve.

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Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage

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Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this baked ziti featuring Italian sausage, gooey cheese, and zesty marinara. Perfect for gathering family and friends, this dish is easy to make and will fill your home with mouthwatering aromas. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, this baked ziti is sure to bring joy to your table.

• Author: Ethan Carter
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 15 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk preferred)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage for about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella until smooth.
6. In a baking dish, layer meat sauce, half of the cooked ziti, and half of the ricotta mixture; repeat layers.
7. Top with remaining meat sauce and mozzarella. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 240g)
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg