Baked Ziti with Sausage

This hearty baked ziti combines tender pasta, savory Italian sausage, rich cheeses, and classic marinara sauce to create the ultimate comfort dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for family gatherings or when you need a satisfying meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.

I first made this baked ziti for my extended family during the holidays five years ago. Since then, it has become our go-to celebration dish. Even my picky nephew asks for it by name whenever he visits.

Ingredients

• Ziti or penne pasta: Provides the perfect texture with ridges that capture all the sauce and cheese
• Italian sausage: Adds rich flavor and protein making this dish truly satisfying
• Marinara sauce: Creates the base flavor profile; look for a high-quality jar or use homemade for best results
• Ricotta cheese: Brings a creamy indulgent texture and traditional Italian flavor
• Mozzarella cheese: Creates that irresistible stretchy cheese pull when serving
• Parmesan cheese: Adds the perfect savory nutty finish to balance the other flavors
• Fresh basil: Brightens the entire dish with its aromatic qualities
• Italian seasoning: Infuses classic herbs throughout every bite
• Egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture creating the perfect creamy pockets throughout

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pasta:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and spray your baking dish generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Cook the pasta just until al dente, about 2 minutes less than package directions. This ensures your final baked pasta maintains texture and doesn't become mushy during baking. After draining, toss with a light coating of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Cook the Sausage:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add Italian sausage and break it into small pieces using a wooden spoon. Cook thoroughly until no pink remains, about 5 to 7 minutes. The browned bits add exceptional flavor to the final dish. Be sure to drain excess fat which could make your baked ziti greasy.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup mozzarella, 1/2 cup Parmesan, fresh basil, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. This cheese mixture creates pockets of creamy goodness throughout the pasta. Season with salt and pepper, remembering that the cheeses already contain some saltiness.

Combine Components:

Gently fold together the cooked pasta, cheese mixture, sausage, and marinara sauce in a large bowl. Use a folding motion rather than aggressive stirring to maintain pasta integrity. Ensure everything is evenly distributed so every serving has the perfect balance of ingredients.

Assemble and Bake:

Transfer the combined mixture to your prepared baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This creates that irresistible golden brown cheesy crust. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and beginning to brown. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and make cutting easier.

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My grandmother from Naples taught me the secret to exceptional baked ziti is in the quality of your cheeses. She always said to splurge on freshly grated Parmesan rather than the pre-grated variety. That nutty depth it adds transforms this from a good pasta dish to something truly memorable.

Make Ahead and Storage

This baked ziti is perfect for planning ahead. You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before to take the chill off, then bake as directed, possibly adding 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time. Leftovers stay delicious for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or larger amounts covered in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Freezing Instructions

Baked ziti freezes exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep or gifting to friends in need. You can freeze it either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the dish completely but do not bake. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed, adding about 15 minutes to the baking time. For already baked ziti, cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this baked ziti recipe is its adaptability. For a vegetarian version, substitute the Italian sausage with 8 ounces of sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative. Looking for a different flavor profile? Try using ground beef or turkey instead of sausage. For a lighter version, use part-skim mozzarella and ricotta. You can also add vegetables like spinach, roasted red peppers, or sautéed zucchini to incorporate more nutrients. For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.

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Serving Suggestions

Baked ziti shines as a main course paired with simple sides. Serve with garlic bread or a crusty Italian loaf to soak up any extra sauce. A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette provides the perfect contrast to the rich pasta. For special occasions, add roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts on the side. This dish pairs beautifully with medium-bodied red wines such as Chianti or Montepulciano d'Abruzzo for an authentic Italian dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use penne instead of ziti?

Yes, penne is a great substitute for ziti in this dish and works just as well with the sauces and cheeses.

→ How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the ziti up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! Simply store the pre-baked or fully cooked ziti in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when needed.

→ What can I serve with baked ziti?

It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

→ Can I use ground beef instead of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef or even ground turkey for the Italian sausage if you prefer a milder flavor.