There’s nothing quite like the warm, gooey comfort of baked ziti to bring everyone to the dinner table. Pair it with savory sausage, and you’ve got yourself a dish that’s packed with flavor, perfect for family meals or potlucks. Today, I’m sharing my favorite baked ziti recipe with sausage—it’s easy to prepare, utterly delicious, and sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1. Ziti Pasta – 1 pound
We need this short, tube-shaped pasta for its ability to hold the sauce inside, making every bite flavorful. Boil until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
2. Italian Sausage – 1 pound (mild or spicy)
The sausage adds a rich and hearty flavor. Remove it from the casing and crumble it for easier cooking. Choose spicy if you like a kick of heat!
3. Marinara Sauce – 3 cups
A good-quality marinara sauce is key to making the dish shine. You can use store-bought or homemade—either way, the robust tomato base ties everything together.
4. Ricotta Cheese – 1 cup
Ricotta brings creaminess to the dish and balances the bold flavors of the sausage and marinara. For extra flavor, mix it with some Italian seasoning before layering.
5. Mozzarella Cheese – 2 cups (shredded)
Melted mozzarella creates the gooey, cheesy top layer we all love. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
6. Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup (grated)
A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a nutty, savory touch. Use freshly grated for the best flavor.
7. Garlic – 2 cloves (minced)
Garlic enhances the overall depth of the sauce. A quick mince will release its aromatic oils.
8. Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon
You’ll use olive oil to sauté the garlic and sausage. It adds richness to the base of the dish.
9. Italian Seasoning – 1 teaspoon
This blend of herbs ties all the flavors together. Feel free to adjust based on your taste.
10. Salt and Pepper – to taste
Seasoning enhances all the individual ingredients and brings them to life.
How to Make Baked Ziti with Sausage
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage Mixture
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the marinara sauce, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, and let simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the sausage marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by dollops of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and half of the mozzarella. Repeat with the remaining ziti, sausage sauce, and cheeses, ending with a generous layer of mozzarella on top.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the baked ziti rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot for boiling the pasta
- Large Skillet for cooking the sausage and sauce
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish to assemble the ziti
- Mixing Spoons and Spatulas for stirring and layering
- Foil to cover the dish during baking
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish as directed but don’t bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, then bake as directed.
Can I substitute the sausage with ground beef or turkey?
Absolutely. Ground beef or turkey works well if you prefer a milder flavor or want a leaner protein option.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat baked ziti in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. For quicker reheating, you can use a microwave.
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Yes! Baked ziti freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Do I have to use ricotta cheese?
Not necessarily. You can substitute it with cottage cheese or even a béchamel sauce for a creamier texture.
How can I add more vegetables?
Feel free to include sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini in the layers for a veggie-packed version.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed this simple yet satisfying recipe for baked ziti with sausage. It’s the kind of meal that brings warmth and joy to any table. If you loved this recipe, share it on Facebook using the buttons below or save it to Pinterest for later. Happy cooking! 😊
Leave a Comment