Description
Hearty layers of ziti pasta come together with savory sausage, creamy ricotta cheese, and bubbling, melted cheese in this comforting and flavorful Baked Ziti with Sausage recipe. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of rich meat sauce, tender pasta, and cheesy goodness makes every bite a delight.
Ingredients
Pasta & Sauces:
- 16 ounces ziti pasta
- 2 (24 ounces) jars marinara sauce
- 15 ounces diced tomatoes, drained
Proteins:
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large egg
Cheese:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
Vegetables & Seasonings:
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the ziti pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Add the Italian sausage and ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a spoon, until fully browned with no pink remaining. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 4: Add the marinara sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Add the cooked ziti to the meat sauce in the skillet and toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 6: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the egg. Mix until smooth and fully blended.
Step 7: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 8: In a 9×13 inch casserole dish, spread a thin layer of the pasta and meat sauce mixture on the bottom.
Step 9: Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the pasta layer. Spread it gently to create a thin, even layer.
Step 10: Repeat the layering process twice more: pasta and meat sauce, followed by the ricotta mixture, finishing with a final layer of the pasta and meat sauce.
Step 11: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly over the top layer of pasta.
Step 12: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20–30 minutes to allow the filling to heat through.
Step 13: Remove the foil and broil on high for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese turns golden brown and bubbly. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 14: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Baked Ziti with Sausage is the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to make, customizable, and always a hit. The combination of savory sausage, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dish for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad or a Caesar salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
- Offer a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil as a garnish for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Add a side of steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans.
Tips
- For a spicier dish, use hot Italian sausage instead of mild.
- Add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini, to the meat sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- To prevent the pasta from drying out, make sure to cover the dish with foil while baking.
- If you don’t have ziti pasta, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or any other short pasta shape.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage and ground beef and add more vegetables or use plant-based meat substitutes.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 550-650 per serving
- Protein: 30-40g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
Conclusion
Baked Ziti with Sausage is a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of flavorful meat sauce, tender pasta, and creamy cheese, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process of creating this delicious meal and savor every bite!
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Q2: Can I freeze baked ziti?
A: Yes, baked ziti freezes well. Let the baked ziti cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Q3: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Provolone, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack would all be delicious substitutes or additions.
Q4: What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
A: If your sauce is too thick, add a little bit of water or chicken broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Q5: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make this vegetarian. Omit the sausage and ground beef and add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also use plant-based meat substitutes for added protein.
