Baked Ziti with Sausage and Ricotta Recipe

Introduction

Baked Ziti with Sausage and Ricotta is a comforting Italian-American classic that’s perfect for family dinners. This hearty dish combines tender pasta, savory sausage, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese baked to golden perfection. It’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the sausage is fully cooked and the onion is softened.
3. Step 3: Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to develop flavor.
4. Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, sausage tomato sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix gently to evenly coat the pasta.
5. Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative.
• Use a combination of mozzarella and provolone cheese for a richer flavor.
• Add spinach or chopped zucchini to the sauce for extra veggies.
• Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake just before serving. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.

What pasta can I use instead of ziti?

Any tubular pasta like penne, rigatoni, or mostaccioli works well as a substitute for ziti in this recipe.

Baked Ziti with Sausage and Ricotta Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 109 reviews

This hearty Baked Ziti with Sausage and Ricotta features tender pasta enveloped in a rich tomato and Italian sausage sauce, layered with creamy ricotta and topped with bubbly mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Finished with fresh basil garnish, it’s a comforting Italian-American classic perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

• Author: mia
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 12 oz ziti pasta

Sauce

• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

Cheeses

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sausage Sauce: In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart as it browns. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent and the sausage is fully cooked through. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.
3. Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Ricotta: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cooked ziti pasta, the sausage tomato sauce, and the ricotta cheese until everything is evenly combined.
4. Assemble the Bake: Transfer the ziti mixture into a baking dish. Evenly top it with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a cheesy crust.
5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving to add a bright, fresh flavor contrast.

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner sausage option.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
• Make ahead by assembling and refrigerating the dish overnight, then bake it straight from the fridge, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.
• This dish freezes well — wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating in the oven.

Keywords: baked ziti, Italian sausage pasta bake, ricotta pasta bake, cheesy baked pasta, comfort food recipe