Cheesy Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage
A comforting dish featuring ziti pasta, Italian sausage, and a blend of creamy cheeses, baked to perfection.
Equipment
- large pot
- large skillet
- mixing bowl
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ziti pasta This tubular pasta holds the sauce and cheese beautifully.
- 1 pound Italian sausage Choose your favorite type, whether spicy or mild, for a flavor boost.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil Adds richness and helps cook the sausage and vegetables.
- 1 small Onion, finely chopped Provides a sweet and savory base for the sauce.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
- 1 can (28 ounces) Crushed tomatoes The heart of the sauce, giving it a rich, tangy taste.
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano Brings a classic Italian flavor to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Dried basil Adds a fresh, aromatic touch.
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- 2 cups Ricotta cheese Adds richness and a smooth texture.
- 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully, creating a gooey topping.
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the dish.
- to taste Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish) Adds color and freshness when serving.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- While the sausage is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. Optionally, mix in some shredded mozzarella cheese.
- In the skillet with the cooked sausage, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the sausage sauce. Gently fold in the ricotta cheese mixture and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Cheesy Baked Ziti with Sausage is a comforting dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings. Customize with different meats or cheeses as desired.