Baked Ziti with Sausage & Ricotta

Baked Ziti with Sausage & Ricotta is a flavorful and hearty Italian-inspired pasta dish that’s sure to please the entire family. This comforting casserole features layers of tender ziti pasta, a savory sausage and tomato sauce, and a creamy ricotta cheese mixture, all topped with a generous sprinkling of mozzarella. Perfect for gatherings, casual family dinners, or meal prep, it offers the satisfaction of a classic baked pasta dish with minimal effort.

INGREDIENTS

• Italian sausage: 1 lb, browned with diced onion for a savory base
• Onion: 1 small, diced finely
• Pasta sauce or marinara: 28 oz, for a rich tomato flavor
• Diced tomatoes with juices: 14.5 oz, adding texture
• Italian seasoning: 2 tsp, for authentic herbal notes
• Water: 1/2 cup, for thinning the sauce slightly
• Ziti pasta: 16 oz, cooked al dente
• Ricotta cheese: 15 oz, combined with egg for creaminess
• Egg: 1 large, binding the cheese mixture
• Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
• Shredded mozzarella: 2 cups, for meltiness
• Shredded Parmesan: 1/4 cup, for added sharpness

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 2:

Brown Italian sausage and diced onion in a skillet over medium heat, then drain any excess fat.

Step 3:

Add pasta sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, water, and Italian seasoning to the skillet and simmer for 12 minutes.

Step 4:

Cook the ziti pasta until al dente, then drain well.

Step 5:

Combine ricotta, egg, parsley, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan in a mixing bowl.

Step 6:

Spread 1 cup of sauce mixture into the greased baking dish. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by the ricotta mixture, and half of the remaining sauce.

Step 7:

Top with the remaining ziti, sauce, and the rest of the mozzarella.

Step 8:

Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Prepare ahead and refrigerate, then bake fresh before serving.

Helpful Notes

• Use hot sausage for extra spice or substitute ground turkey for a leaner version.
• Fresh basil can be used as an alternative to parsley for a different flavor profile.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef’s Tip: Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.

Pairing Suggestions for Baked Ziti

Pair Baked Ziti with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a light Chianti for a classic Italian dining experience. The creamy ricotta and rich tomato sauce balance perfectly with fresh greens and crusty bread.

Customizing Your Baked Ziti

For added veggies, consider including sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Swap ricotta for cottage cheese or try a blend of cheeses for a unique twist.

FAQs

Can I freeze Baked Ziti?

Yes, freeze the assembled, unbaked dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Omit the sausage and add extra vegetables or plant-based protein substitutes.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne or rigatoni are good substitutes.

What cheese can replace ricotta?

Cottage cheese, mascarpone, or a mix of cream cheese can be used as alternatives.

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Conclusion

Baked Ziti with Sausage & Ricotta is a classic comfort dish made with layers of ziti pasta, a flavorful tomato sauce loaded with Italian sausage, creamy ricotta cheese, and shredded mozzarella. This baked casserole is perfect for family meals and entertaining, as it offers both hearty and cheesy satisfaction. Begin by browning the sausage and onion, then simmering with pasta sauce, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Layer it with cooked ziti, a ricotta mixture enhanced with egg and Parmesan, and top it off with plenty of mozzarella for a golden-brown finish. Easy to assemble and full of rich, authentic flavor, this meal is great paired with a fresh side salad or garlic bread.