Baked Ziti
The ultimate comfort food, Baked Ziti combines creamy cheeses, hearty sausage, and rich marinara sauce into a satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and even easier to love, it's a go-to for family dinners and gatherings. Make it tonight for a dish that warms the heart!
Equipment
- 9 x 13 Baking Dish
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
- 16 oz Ziti or Penne Pasta The heart of this dish, providing the structure and base for all the delicious flavors.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéing and adding a touch of richness to the pasta.
- 1 pound Italian Sausage This brings a savory depth to the dish that’s hard to resist.
- 32 oz Marinara Sauce The perfect blend of tomatoes and herbs that ties everything together.
- 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Adds creaminess and a slightly sweet flavor to balance the dish.
- 1 Large Egg Helps to bind the cheeses together, ensuring a perfect texture.
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese, divided For that melty, gooey topping that we all crave.
- 3/4 cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese, divided Adds a nice, nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses.
- 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Basil Fresh herbs brightening the dish with a burst of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning A blend of herbs that enhances the overall taste.
- Dash Crushed Red Pepper Flakes, optional For a touch of heat, if desired.
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste Salt and Pepper Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors.
- For garnish: chopped basil, if desired Chopped Basil A fresh touch that makes the dish visually appealing.
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This temperature allows the cheese to melt beautifully and the pasta to bake to perfection. While it heats up, prepare your baking dish by spraying a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your ziti or penne pasta and cook until al dente, which usually takes around 8 to 10 minutes. This step is crucial, as you don’t want to overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook in the oven. After draining, drizzle a little olive oil over the pasta to ensure it doesn’t stick together.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over moderate heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. This will add a fabulous flavor to your Baked Ziti. Remember to drain out any excess fat, as you want to keep it lean and tasty.
- While the sausage cooks, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, Italian seasoning, and a dash of salt and pepper in a medium bowl. This mixture will create the creamy filling that makes Baked Ziti so irresistible. Make sure it’s well combined.
- Once your sausage is cooked and drained, add the ricotta mixture to the drained pasta. Pour in the marinara sauce and the cooked sausage, stirring gently to combine everything. Be careful not to break up the pasta; you want those ziti tubes intact!
- Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Now, it’s time to top it off with the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese, sprinkling them generously over the top. This will create a bubbly, golden crust as it bakes.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you'll want the cheese to be melted and lightly browned. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
- Once out of the oven, let the Baked Ziti sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
- Now, dig in and enjoy your delicious homemade Baked Ziti! Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it easy to enjoy again later.
- Freezing: You can freeze Baked Ziti for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
- Serving Size: This recipe makes a large batch, so it’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. You can also scale it down if needed.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with your favorite vegetables or a meat alternative to make it vegetarian-friendly.
- Flavor Boost: Add in some crushed garlic or sautéed onions with the sausage for an extra depth of flavor.