Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage is a hearty and comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. Loaded with tender ziti, flavorful Italian sausage, and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is layered with gooey melted mozzarella and creamy ricotta, giving it an indulgent, cheesy texture. The sausage adds a savory depth that complements the tangy tomato sauce, making each bite packed with flavor. Baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly top, this casserole-style meal is both satisfying and easy to prepare—ideal for feeding a crowd or making ahead for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy), casings removed
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Combine pasta and sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti with the sausage and sauce. Stir in the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Assemble the ziti: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve hot.
This Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage is a cheesy, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s perfect for a satisfying family meal or a potluck favorite!
