Name: Baked Ziti with Sausage
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or sweet); 15 oz ricotta cheese; 24 oz marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

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Baked Ziti with Sausage is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine layers of cheesy goodness, zesty marinara, and hearty sausage melding together in perfect harmony. baked chicken divan recipe As it bakes, the aromas waft through the kitchen, teasing your taste buds and promising an unforgettable flavor experience.

This dish has been a staple at my family gatherings for years. Every time I whip up Baked Ziti with Sausage, I can count on oohs and aahs from my loved ones. hearty tortellini soup Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a party with friends, this delight never fails to bring everyone together around the table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Baked Ziti with Sausage recipe makes meal prep enjoyable and easy
The flavors blend beautifully, creating a comforting dish that’s visually appealing
Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers
It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients!

I still remember the first time I served this dish at our family reunion; everyone went back for seconds, and I basked in all that culinary glory.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious lasagna soup recipe.

Ziti Pasta: Choose medium-sized ziti for optimal sauce absorption and delightful texture when baked.
Italian Sausage: Use spicy or sweet sausage according to your taste; it adds depth and richness to the dish.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese provides a luscious layer; look for whole milk ricotta for the best flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole recipe.
Marinara Sauce: A good quality sauce elevates the dish; homemade or store-bought works wonders here.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for whole milk mozzarella for that gooey, stretchy texture we all crave in baked dishes.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it adds a nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses beautifully.
Fresh Basil or Parsley: Use as a garnish for color and freshness; it brightens up the rich flavors perfectly.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the ingredients. This ensures even baking once you’re ready to pop everything in.

Cook the Ziti Pasta: Boil ziti pasta in salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Sauté the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook Italian sausage until browned and crispy. Break it into chunks; this adds great texture!

Mix Cheeses Together: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella and some grated Parmesan. Stir until well blended.

Add Marinara Sauce: Pour about half of your marinara sauce into a large mixing bowl along with cooked pasta and sausage. Toss until everything is well coated.

Layer Everything Up!: In a baking dish, start layering: half of the pasta mixture first, followed by dollops of cheese mixture. Repeat layers and finish with remaining marinara sauce topped with mozzarella and Parmesan.

Now let that beautiful creation bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Enjoy every bite of this comforting Baked Ziti with Sausage! For more inspiration, check out this Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts recipe.

You Must Know

Baked Ziti with Sausage is a comforting dish that combines rich flavors and textures
The creamy cheese meets savory sausage, creating a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion
This dish is not only filling but also easy to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the sausage until browned, then boil the pasta while preparing a fresh tomato sauce. creamy tomato pasta dish Layer everything with cheese for that melty goodness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the sausage for ground turkey or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for optimal taste.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To avoid dry baked ziti, ensure your sauce is adequately saucy before mixing with pasta
Adding a little fresh basil can elevate flavors significantly
Letting it rest before serving allows flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the dish overall

Sharing this dish always brings back memories of my cousin’s wedding where everyone raved about my Baked Ziti with Sausage. It was a hit!

FAQ

Can I use different types of pasta for Baked Ziti with Sausage?

Yes, feel free to substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni for varied textures.

How do I make Baked Ziti vegetarian?

Simply replace sausage with sautéed vegetables or plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian version.

What can I serve with Baked Ziti with Sausage?

Pair it with garlic bread or a simple side salad to complete your meal experience.