Baked Ziti with Sausage:
Baked Ziti with Sausage is a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful casserole that has become a staple in Italian-American cuisine. This dish combines tender pasta, savory Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a crowd-pleasing result.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Baked Ziti with Sausage, including its ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, serving suggestions, tips for success, nutritional information, and answers to frequently asked questions.
What Is Baked Ziti with Sausage?
Baked Ziti with Sausage is a baked pasta dish that features ziti (a type of tubular pasta), Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses. It’s similar to lasagna but much easier to assemble, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The dish is layered in a casserole dish and baked until bubbly and golden, creating a comforting meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
Ingredients for Baked Ziti with Sausage
Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic dish:
For the Pasta:
- Ziti Pasta (1 pound): You can also use penne or rigatoni as substitutes.
For the Sauce:
- Italian Sausage (1 pound, mild or spicy): Adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the sausage and aromatics.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Enhances the flavor of the sauce.
- Marinara Sauce (4 cups): Use store-bought or homemade marinara for the base.
- Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons): Intensifies the tomato flavor.
- Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a touch of heat.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
For the Cheese Layer:
- Ricotta Cheese (1 cup): Adds creaminess to the dish.
- Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded): For that gooey, melty topping.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds a nutty, salty flavor.
- Egg (1 large): Helps bind the ricotta mixture.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): For garnish and added freshness.
How to Make Baked Ziti with Sausage
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect Baked Ziti with Sausage:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the marinara sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of the sausage sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add half of the cooked ziti pasta, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, half of the remaining sauce, and a layer of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella on top.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Variations of Baked Ziti with Sausage
This recipe is highly versatile, and you can customize it to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a veggie-packed dish.
- Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
- Different Cheeses: Swap ricotta for cottage cheese or add provolone for a unique flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese into the sauce for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Ziti with Sausage is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some serving ideas:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
- Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.
- Soup: Pair with a light soup like minestrone or tomato basil for a comforting meal.
Tips for the Best Baked Ziti with Sausage
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: The pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so don’t overcook it during boiling.
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for good-quality marinara sauce and cheese for the best flavor.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to make slicing and serving easier.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake it when ready to serve.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content for Baked Ziti with Sausage (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Sodium: 980mg
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
Tools For This Recipes
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| Tool Name | Purpose | Recommended Features | Affiliate Link Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-Stick Skillets | Ideal for scrambling eggs and sautéing vegetables | Durable, easy to clean, with heat-resistant handles. | Amazon Non-Stick Skillet |
| Immersion Blenders | Perfect for smoothies and protein smoothie bowls | Powerful motor, easy to use, with multiple speed settings and detachable blending shaft. | Amazon Immersion Blender |
| Digital Measuring Tools | Accurate measurement of ingredients for baking and cooking | Digital display, precise readings, compact size. | Amazon Digital Measuring Tool |
| Slow Cooker | Ideal for time-saving breakfast options like breakfast casseroles | Multi-functional, programmable, large capacity, easy to clean. | Amazon Slow Cooker |
| Blender | For smoothies, protein smoothie bowls, and more | High-speed, durable, multiple blending functions. | Amazon Blender |
| Food Processor | Quick ingredient preparation for salads, pancakes, etc. | Versatile, powerful motor, dishwasher-safe parts. | Amazon Food Processor |
| Instant Pot | Great for batch cooking, oatmeal, and more | Multi-functional (slow cooker, rice cooker, pressure cooker), easy-to-use interface. | Amazon Instant Pot |
| Mason Jars | Ideal for preparing overnight oats and chia puddings | Glass jars with airtight lids, various sizes for meal prep. | Amazon Mason Jars |
| Meal Prep Containers | Essential for organizing pre-prepared meals like overnight oats and egg muffins | BPA-free, stackable, and microwave-safe. | Amazon Meal Prep Containers |
| Pancake Art Squeeze Bottles | Fun and creative breakfast options for kids | Precision tips for intricate designs, easy squeeze. | Amazon Pancake Squeeze Bottles |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Baked Ziti with Sausage in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
2. Can I freeze Baked Ziti with Sausage?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
4. Can I use ground beef instead of sausage?
Yes, ground beef or ground turkey can be used as a substitute for Italian sausage.
Why You’ll Love Baked Ziti with Sausage
Baked Ziti with Sausage is the perfect combination of hearty, cheesy, and comforting flavors. It’s easy to make, customizable, and ideal for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.
For more recipes like this, visit AllRecipes’ Pasta Collection.
