Baked Ziti with Sausage and Ricotta Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
