Nothing says comfort food like a hearty Baked Ziti with Sausage. Packed with creamy ricotta, layers of rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or prepping meals for the week, this baked ziti is guaranteed to satisfy. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Let’s dive into the details of this cheesy, saucy masterpiece.
Ingredients and Preparation Steps
What You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 16 oz ziti pasta
- 1 large onion, minced
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ jars (26 oz each) spaghetti sauce
- 8 oz shredded Italian cheese blend
- 1 tsp dried basil (optional)
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
First, 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: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, heat a pan over medium heat and sauté the minced onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the oregano, salt, and black pepper for an extra depth of flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and the sautéed onions. Mix well until smooth. This mixture will add a creamy texture to your baked ziti.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with half of the spaghetti sauce. Then, in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread ⅓ of the remaining sauce at the bottom. Add half of the pasta mixture, then another layer of sauce and cheese. Repeat the process to create delicious layers.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy!
The Best Time to Savor Your Baked Ziti with Sausage
Baked ziti is the ultimate comfort meal. The creamy ricotta, rich sauce, and gooey cheese create a perfect bite every time. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving a warm, cheesy meal, this dish fits the bill.
Pair it with a fresh green salad and a side of fluffy homemade biscuits for a complete meal. It’s also a fantastic choice for meal prepping—simply reheat and enjoy throughout the week!
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Ziti with Sausage
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! If you don’t have ziti, you can substitute penne or rigatoni. The key is to use a pasta shape that holds sauce well.
Do I need to cook the pasta before baking?
Yes, cooking the pasta until al dente before baking ensures it won’t be too soft or mushy after baking.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
How do I make this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the baked ziti a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best cheese for baked ziti?
A combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan creates the perfect creamy and gooey texture. You can also try provolone or an Italian cheese blend for added depth.
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to make your own delicious Baked Ziti with Sausage! Stay tuned for more tips on making this dish even better.
Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti with Sausage
Want to take your Baked Ziti with Sausage to the next level? Here are some expert tips to help you achieve the best results:
- Use high-quality cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook your ziti until it’s just al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Let it rest before serving: Allow your baked ziti to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
- Enhance the sauce: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor.
- Double the batch for later: Make two trays—one for now and one to freeze for an easy meal later.
- Experiment with seasonings: Try adding Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or fennel seeds for an extra flavor boost.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Have leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your baked ziti for maximum freshness:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, let the baked ziti cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating in the oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Reheating in the microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out.
Perfect Pairings for Baked Ziti with Sausage
Complete your meal with these delicious pairings:
- Side Dish: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the baked ziti.
- Bread: Serve with homemade biscuits or garlic bread for the perfect bite.
- Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or steamed broccoli make great side dishes.
- Soup: Pair with a warm bowl of tomato soup for a cozy, comforting meal.
- Drink: A refreshing glass of iced tea or sparkling water complements the cheesy goodness of the dish.
With these tips and pairings, you’re ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality Baked Ziti with Sausage at home. But there’s still more to explore—stay tuned for the final step!
Now that you have everything you need to make the ultimate Baked Ziti with Sausage, it’s time to bring this cheesy, saucy masterpiece to life in your kitchen! Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.
Want to customize your baked ziti? Try these variations:
- Make it vegetarian: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- Use different cheeses: Try provolone, fontina, or gouda for a unique twist.
We’d love to hear from you! Did you try this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below. What’s your favorite way to enjoy baked ziti?
For more inspiration, check out this delicious version of Baked Ziti with Sausage from AllRecipes.
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Happy cooking!
Baked Ziti with Sausage
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8
Description
This comforting baked ziti is packed with creamy ricotta, layers of rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week!
Ingredients
– 16 oz ziti pasta
– 1 large onion, minced
– 2 tsp minced garlic
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– ½ tsp salt
– ½ tsp black pepper
– 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1 ½ jars (26 oz each) spaghetti sauce
– 8 oz shredded Italian cheese blend
– 1 tsp dried basil (optional)
Instructions
1. First, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Next, cook the ziti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. After that, sauté the onion and garlic in a pan over medium heat until soft. Stir in oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Then, in a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, and sautéed onions. Stir in the cooked pasta, half of the spaghetti sauce, and mix well.
5. Next, layer ⅓ of the remaining sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. Add half of the pasta mixture, then another layer of sauce and cheese. Repeat once more.
6. Finally, bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the mix!
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Calories: 649
- Fat: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 69g
- Protein: 31g
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