Baked Ziti (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
1 pound uncooked ziti or penne pasta.
02 -
1 pound Italian sausage.
03 -
1 medium onion, chopped.
04 -
4-5 cloves garlic, minced.
05 -
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning.
06 -
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional).
07 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes.
08 -
1 cup heavy cream.
09 -
1/2 tsp salt.
10 -
Pepper to taste.
11 -
1 tsp sugar.
12 -
8 oz ricotta cheese.
13 -
1 cup grated parmesan cheese.
14 -
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
15 -
Optional: fresh parsley or basil for serving.
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
02 -
Boil salted water and cook the ziti for 2-3 minutes less than the package directions suggest. Drain and set aside.
03 -
In a pot, cook the Italian sausage and chopped onion until browned.
04 -
Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another minute.
05 -
Stir in crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and sugar. Heat through for about 5 minutes.
06 -
Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
07 -
Spread half of the pasta mixture in a 9x13 casserole dish.
08 -
Spoon the ricotta cheese over the pasta as a middle layer.
09 -
Add the remaining pasta mixture on top without mixing.
10 -
Sprinkle grated parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
11 -
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, then broil until the cheese turns golden brown.
12 -
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
# Notes:
01 -
To make the dish spicier, include the crushed red pepper flakes.
02 -
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
03 -
You can substitute ground beef or turkey for the Italian sausage if preferred.