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Baked Ziti With Sausage

Name: Baked Ziti with Sausage
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 1 lb spicy Italian sausage; 4 cups marinara sauce; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup chopped fresh basil

Posted on September 14, 2025

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There’s something truly magical about the aroma of baked ziti with sausage wafting through your home. Imagine a bubbling dish filled with layers of cheesy goodness, savory sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta that greets you like a warm hug after a long day. savory Italian sausage ragu The moment you pull it out of the oven, your mouth begins to water at the sight of golden cheese melting into the rich tomato sauce, making it impossible to resist. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini recipe.

I remember the first time I made baked ziti with sausage for my family; it was an impromptu dinner that turned into an unforgettable feast. My brother-in-law took one bite and declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which is quite a compliment coming from someone who usually sticks to frozen pizza. hearty sausage stuffing balls This dish is perfect for cozy family gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends, promising an explosion of flavor that will leave everyone talking long after the last bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Baked ziti with sausage is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
The combination of savory sausage and creamy cheese creates a flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for seconds
Visually appealing with its vibrant colors and melted cheese, it’s sure to impress on any dinner table
Plus, this dish is versatile enough for meal prep or feeding a crowd!

It’s always a hit at potlucks, where everyone asks for seconds—my cousin even tried sneaking some leftovers in her purse!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Ziti Pasta: Opt for tubular pasta that holds sauce well; al dente is key for perfect texture.
Sausage: Use spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick or sweet if you prefer milder flavors. crispy sweet potato fritters.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade; ensure it’s flavorful and well-seasoned.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta adds richness; consider mixing in some herbs for extra flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Beef and Cheese Chimichangas recipe.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella offers gooey goodness; be generous—no one likes skimping on cheese!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives depth; avoid pre-grated versions for optimal flavor.
Fresh Basil: This herb brightens up the dish; chop some for garnish before serving.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add the ziti and cook until just al dente according to package instructions—don’t overdo it; they’ll continue cooking in the oven.

Brown the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, add your sausage and cook until browned. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks, releasing those mouthwatering aromas that will have everyone rushing to help in the kitchen.

Mix the Cheeses: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of your mozzarella and some grated Parmesan. Stir until smooth and creamy—this will be your secret weapon for cheesy perfection.

Add Marinara Sauce: Once your sausage is browned, drain excess fat and return to heat. Pour in marinara sauce, stirring until everything is coated nicely. Let simmer for about five minutes so all those flavors meld together deliciously.

Assemble Your Ziti: In a baking dish, start layering by adding half of your pasta followed by half of the meat sauce mixture. Next comes half of your cheesy mixture; repeat layers until you reach the top, finishing with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

Bake It Up!: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil (to prevent excessive browning), then bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

And there you have it: baked ziti with sausage that’s not only delicious but also warms both hearts and bellies! Enjoy every cheesy bite while reminiscing about family dinners or planning future gatherings—it’s all part of what makes this dish so special! delicious turkey meatball sliders.

You Must Know

Baked Ziti with Sausage is a comforting dish that can be easily tailored
The gooey cheese and savory sausage create an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen, making it feel like a warm hug on a plate
Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect results, cook the sausage first, then prepare the pasta while the sauce simmers. Layer everything efficiently for an optimal baked ziti experience.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients! Use ground turkey for a leaner option or add veggies like spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To make your baked ziti even tastier, consider using freshly grated cheese
This enhances flavor and texture significantly
Ensure not to overcook the pasta; aim for al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven
Finally, let your dish rest before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter and delicious food filled the air, creating lasting bonds over cheesy goodness.

FAQs

FAQ

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

Absolutely! Ground beef or turkey can also work well in this recipe.

How do I prevent my baked ziti from becoming dry?

Ensure you have enough sauce and cover with foil while baking to retain moisture.

Can I freeze baked ziti with sausage?

Yes, it freezes well! Just wrap tightly and store for up to three months.