Easy Baked Ziti with Sausage
Imagine a welcoming kitchen filled with the rich aromas of garlic sizzling in olive oil, mingling with the warmth of freshly grated cheese and hearty Italian sausage. Each whiff transports you back to childhood, where family dinners felt like a grand celebration every night. That’s the magic of my Easy Baked Ziti with Sausage—a comforting recipe that brings loved ones together, filling bellies and hearts with joy.
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you make this dish? Let me tell you, this isn’t just another simple dinner. It’s a celebration of flavors and memories. Here are a few reasons why this easy meal deserves a spot in your recipe collection:
- Quick Prep: Ready in about 30 minutes, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones.
- Cozy Flavors: The combination of zesty sausage, tangy marinara, and creamy cheese creates a warm embrace for your taste buds.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in—you’ll leave everyone asking for seconds!
- Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand; pasta, meats, and sauces can be easily swapped to suit any palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather your ingredients, and let the magic begin! Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious homemade dish:
- Ziti Pasta (1 lb): Perfect for holding onto the sauce. Penne can also be used as a substitute.
- Italian Sausage (1 lb): Choose your favorite—mild or spicy. For a lighter option, turkey sausage works well.
- Marinara Sauce (4 cups): Store-bought or homemade; just ensure it’s packed with flavor.
- Ricotta Cheese (15 oz): Creamy and rich; a lighter option could be cottage cheese.
- Mozzarella Cheese (3 cups, shredded): Use fresh for an indulgent stretch or part-skim for fewer calories.
- Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated): A must for a savory depth of flavor.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Aromatic magic that transforms the dish.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): For cooking the sausage and adding richness.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tablespoon): A blend of herbs to enhance every bite.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Always necessary to elevate the flavors!
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
This dish is quick enough for any weeknight but has that home-cooked warmth that makes it feel special.
How to Make Easy Baked Ziti with Sausage
Here’s your step-by-step guide to creating this comforting masterpiece:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you gather your ingredients.
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Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, and as it sizzles, allow the mouth-watering aroma to fill your kitchen. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes).
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked sausage with the drained pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
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Layer the Ziti: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spoon half of the pasta mixture, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan over it. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, followed by the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
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Bake: Cover the dish with foil (to prevent sticking, spray foil with cooking spray) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Let it Rest: After removing from the oven, let the ziti sit for about 5–10 minutes for easier serving.
Tips and Creative Variations
Feel free to make this recipe truly yours! Here are a few ideas to personalize it:
- Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes for a kick or some pesto for an herby twist.
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or fontina for rich flavor.
Serving Ideas
Pair your Easy Baked Ziti with Sausage with a crisp Caesar salad to balance the richness, and finish the meal with a light, homemade dessert like a lemon sorbet or a classic tiramisu. A glass of Chianti or sparkling lemonade will elevate the occasion to a feast!
Storing and Reheating
Now, let’s talk leftovers! Store any untouched ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. For freezing, portion it out in freezer-safe containers and it’ll last up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20–25 minutes.
Pro Tips for Success
- Thoroughly cook sausage: Cooking sausage well not only enhances flavor but also ensures a safe dish.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Remember, the pasta will continue to cook in the oven; al dente is key!
- Use high-quality sauce: A good marinara makes all the difference, so choose one that packs a punch!
FAQs
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Can I freeze this recipe? Yes! Baked ziti freezes beautifully. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
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What’s the best substitute for ricotta? Cottage cheese is a fantastic alternative—it retains the creamy texture while being a bit lighter.
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Is this dish kid-friendly? Absolutely! With its cheesy goodness and familiar flavors, kids will love it!
Conclusion
Making Easy Baked Ziti with Sausage isn’t just about cooking; it’s about creating memories, sharing laughter, and warming the hearts of those you love. As you bring this comforting recipe to your table, remember that food has the power to connect us, one delicious bite at a time. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your family, and dive into the joy of sharing this delightful dish. And don’t forget to come back and share how your loved ones enjoyed it!
Contents
Easy Baked Ziti with Sausage
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ziti Pasta Perfect for holding onto the sauce. Penne can also be used as a substitute.
- 1 lb Italian Sausage Choose your favorite—mild or spicy. Turkey sausage works as a lighter option.
- 4 cups Marinara Sauce Store-bought or homemade; ensure it's flavorful.
- 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Creamy and rich; cottage cheese can be a lighter option.
- 3 cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded Use fresh for an indulgent stretch or part-skim for fewer calories.
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated A must for savory depth.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Aromatic ingredient that enhances flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For cooking the sausage.
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Herb blend to enhance flavor.
- Salt and Pepper, to taste Essential for flavor enhancement.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you gather your ingredients.
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, followed by the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes).
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked sausage with the drained pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Baking
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spoon half of the pasta mixture, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan over it. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, followed by the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover the dish with foil (spray the foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the ziti sit for about 5–10 minutes before serving to make it easier to cut.
Notes
Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.