Baked Ziti with Sausage is the epitome of comfort food. Combining tender ziti pasta, hearty Italian sausage, and a blend of creamy ricotta, marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s an easy, one-pan wonder that delivers incredible flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Customizable: Swap sausage for ground beef or a vegetarian option.
Hearty and Filling: Loaded with pasta, sausage, and cheese for a complete meal.
Perfect for Sharing: Great for potlucks, parties, or family-style dining.
Easy to Make: Simple steps and ingredients for a no-fuss dinner.
Ingredients for Baked Ziti with Sausage
For the Pasta
- 1 lb (450g) ziti or penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt for boiling water
For the Sauce
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Cheese Mixture
Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
How to Make Baked Ziti with Sausage
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente.
- Drain, toss with olive oil, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage until browned.
- Add garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in marinara sauce and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, layer half the cooked pasta, half the sausage sauce, and half the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti
For Extra Creaminess: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: For the best melt and flavor.
Make Ahead: Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Side Dishes: Pair with garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad.
Leftover Magic: Reheat leftovers for an even more flavorful second meal.
Alternative Variations
Cheese Lovers: Add an extra layer of provolone or burrata for added richness.
Vegetarian Option: Swap sausage for sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
Spicy Kick: Use spicy sausage or add more crushed red pepper flakes.
Baked Ziti with Sausage is a go-to recipe for hearty, homey comfort food. With layers of pasta, flavorful sausage, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table. Try it for your next family dinner or potluck, and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes!
Love this recipe? Don’t miss out on more mouthwatering dishes, helpful cooking tips, and meal inspiration! Subscribe to our newsletter today and bring flavor to your inbox. 😊
