55. Baked Ziti with Sausage Flavorful and Easy Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, cheesy dish that’s both hearty and simple to make, look no further. My baked ziti with sausage combines rich flavors and satisfying textures in every bite. This recipe uses easy ingredients like ziti pasta, Italian sausage, and creamy cheeses. You’ll love how quickly you can whip this up for family dinners or gatherings. Ready to bring comfort food to your table? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Baked Ziti with Sausage

– 12 oz ziti pasta

– 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)

– 3 cups ricotta cheese

– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

For this dish, ziti pasta gives a nice bite that holds the sauce well. The Italian sausage brings rich flavor. I love using ricotta and mozzarella cheeses for their creamy texture and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Pantry Staples and Seasonings

– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

– 2 teaspoons dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

Crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce create a smooth base. Oregano and basil add that classic Italian taste. These staples are easy to keep on hand for quick meals.

Optional Ingredients for Flavor

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

– Fresh basil for garnish

– Olive oil for sautéing

Red pepper flakes give a kick, while fresh basil adds a burst of color and taste. A drizzle of olive oil makes everything richer and more delicious. If you want to explore more, check out the Full Recipe for detailed steps!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing Your Ingredients

1. Preheating the oven: First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get it ready for baking the ziti.

2. Cooking ziti pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz of ziti pasta and cook it until it is al dente. This usually takes around 8 to 10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside. Make sure to leave some moisture so it does not stick.

Cooking the Sauce

1. Sautéing onions and garlic: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add one finely diced onion. Sauté it until it becomes soft, about 5 minutes. Then add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute.

2. Browning the sausage: Next, add 1 lb of Italian sausage (you can choose mild or spicy) to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, which takes about 6 to 8 minutes.

3. Simmering the tomato sauce: Once the sausage is browned, stir in one 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes, one 15 oz can of tomato sauce, 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and optional red pepper flakes for heat. Let this mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Assembling the Baked Ziti

1. Mixing pasta and sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the sausage sauce. Add 2 cups of ricotta cheese and mix everything until the pasta is well-coated.

2. Layering with cheese: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly at the bottom. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over this layer.

3. Baking instructions: Add the remaining pasta mixture on top of the cheese layer. Top it off with the rest of the mozzarella and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

In just over an hour, you will have a delicious Baked Ziti with Sausage. For the full recipe, check out the recipe section above!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Your Baked Ziti

To get the best texture, focus on cooking your pasta just right. Cook the ziti until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite. This prevents the pasta from getting mushy when baked.

For flavor enhancements, use fresh herbs. Fresh basil adds a lovely taste. You can also try adding a dash of red pepper flakes if you like heat. Mix well with your sauce before combining it with the ziti.

Cooking Tools You Will Need

For this dish, you’ll need a few key tools. First, a large pot for boiling the pasta. A solid skillet is great for browning the sausage and sautéing the onions.

Choose a sturdy baking dish, like a 9×13 inch glass or ceramic dish. This allows for even cooking and easy serving of your baked ziti.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your baked ziti with garlic bread on the side. This bread pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the dish. You may also want to add a fresh salad for a crunchy element.

For gatherings, plan on serving about 1 to 1.5 cups per person. This ensures everyone gets enough to enjoy. Don’t forget to garnish each plate with fresh basil for a nice touch.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can change the sausage type to fit your taste. Try sweet Italian sausage for a milder dish. For a spicy kick, use hot Italian sausage. You can also use turkey sausage for a lighter option. If you want a vegetarian dish, swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or lentils. These swaps keep the dish tasty and satisfying.

Flavor Enhancements

Add more flavor by mixing in vegetables. Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers work well. They add color and nutrients. You can also use mushrooms for a hearty texture. For cheese, try blending in different types. Goat cheese or feta can add a unique taste. You can also use a mix of mozzarella and provolone for extra creaminess.

Serving Style Variations

You can serve baked ziti in different ways. Baking it gives a crispy top and warm, gooey cheese. If you prefer, make it on the stove for a quicker meal. This method is just as tasty. For gatherings, consider individual portions. Use small ramekins or baking dishes. This makes serving easy and fun for your guests.

Explore the [Full Recipe] for all the details and tips.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep leftovers fresh, place them in an airtight container. Make sure the dish is cool before sealing it up. Refrigerate the baked ziti. It can stay good for up to four days. If you want to store it longer, try freezing it.

For freezing, use a freezer-safe container. You can also wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Label it with the date. Baked ziti can last up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat baked ziti, you have a few options. The best way is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the ziti in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until it’s hot throughout.

You can also use the microwave. Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Make sure it gets hot all the way to the center.

Shelf Life Explanation

In the fridge, baked ziti lasts about four days. If you freeze it, you can enjoy it for up to three months. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If it smells off or looks strange, it’s best to throw it away.

FAQs

How long does it take to make Baked Ziti with Sausage?

Making Baked Ziti with Sausage takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes. This includes:

– Prep Time: 20 minutes

– Cook Time: 50 minutes

You need to prepare the ingredients, cook the pasta, and make the sauce. Then, you will layer the dish and bake it.

Can you use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can use different types of pasta. If you don’t have ziti, try:

– Penne

– Rigatoni

– Fusilli

These shapes hold the sauce well and mix nicely with the cheese.

How to make Baked Ziti without meat?

For a meatless version, you can skip the sausage and use:

– Sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

– Add extra cheese for flavor.

This keeps the dish hearty and satisfying without meat.

Is Baked Ziti the same as Lasagna?

Baked Ziti and Lasagna are similar but not the same. Here are key points:

– Layering: Lasagna uses flat noodles, while ziti uses tubular pasta.

– Structure: Lasagna is typically layered with sauce and cheese. Baked ziti is mixed together.

Both are cheesy and delicious, but they offer different textures.

Baked ziti with sausage is a delicious meal packed with flavor. We discussed key ingredients like ziti pasta, Italian sausage, and cheeses. You learned how to prepare the dish step-by-step, from cooking the sauce to baking it perfectly. I shared tips to enhance flavor and suggested variations for your taste.

Remember to store any leftovers correctly for future meals. Whether you want meat or prefer a vegetarian version, baked ziti is versatile. Now, it’s your turn to create this comforting dish and enjoy it with loved ones.

55. Baked Ziti with Sausage

Indulge in a delicious Baked Ziti that’s sure to impress! This comforting dish is packed with flavorful Italian sausage, rich cheeses, and savory herbs, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With easy step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to create a cheesy, bubbly masterpiece in no time. Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your mealtime with this irresistible baked ziti delight!

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Ingredients

  

12 oz ziti pasta

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)

1 medium onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

3 cups ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions

 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a roaring boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta and set aside, leaving a little moisture to prevent sticking.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, pour a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté it until it becomes soft and translucent, approximately 5 minutes.

Brown the Sausage: To the skillet, incorporate the minced garlic and the Italian sausage. Cook, breaking the sausage apart with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through, which should take around 6-8 minutes.

Create the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the rich flavors to meld. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your liking.

Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the sausage mixture and 2 cups of ricotta cheese. Mix thoroughly until all the pasta is evenly coated with the mixture.

Layer the Dish: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over this layer.

Finish Layering: Carefully place the remaining pasta mixture on top of the cheese layer. Finish by scattering the remaining mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Bake the Ziti: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is beautifully bubbly and golden brown.

Rest and Garnish: Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the layers set. Before serving, garnish each portion with fresh basil leaves for a delightful touch.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Servings: 6-8

- Presentation Tips: Serve the baked ziti in individual bowls or plates adorned with a sprinkle of fresh basil, and alongside a warm side of garlic bread for a truly satisfying meal experience.