Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until just al dente. Avoid overcooking, as the pasta will continue to soften in the oven. Drain well and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Remove excess grease if necessary.
Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Season with basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet and stir to combine. Reduce heat and allow the sauce to simmer for five to seven minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the sausage sauce. Add the ricotta cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella, stirring gently until evenly distributed.
Transfer half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with a portion of the Parmesan cheese. Layer the remaining pasta on top and finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
Remove from the oven and allow the baked ziti to rest for five to ten minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and improves texture.
Serving and Storage:
Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage is best served warm, straight from the oven. Its rich, cheesy layers make it a satisfying main dish that pairs well with lighter sides.
Serve with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. For gatherings, this dish can be served directly from the baking dish, making it both practical and inviting.
For storage, allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerated, baked ziti will keep well for up to four days.
This dish also freezes exceptionally well. Wrap tightly or store in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for best results.
Tips:
For added flavor, use a combination of mild and spicy Italian sausage. This creates depth without overwhelming heat.
Freshly shredded cheese melts more evenly than pre-shredded varieties and improves overall texture. If you prefer a creamier dish, add an extra half cup of ricotta or a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
Baked ziti is highly customizable. Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
To prevent dryness, avoid overbaking and always let the dish rest briefly before serving.
Conclusion:
Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage is a timeless comfort dish that delivers bold flavor, satisfying texture, and dependable results. Its straightforward preparation and familiar ingredients make it accessible to cooks of all skill levels, while its rich taste ensures it remains a favorite.
Whether served at a family dinner, prepared for meal prep, or shared at a gathering, this baked pasta dish offers warmth, tradition, and comfort in every bite. It stands as a reminder that simple recipes, when thoughtfully prepared, can create lasting impressions.
FAQ:
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if chilled.
What can I substitute for ziti pasta?
Penne or rigatoni work well as substitutes due to their similar size and structure.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, omit the sausage and add vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a meatless version.
How do I prevent baked ziti from drying out?
Ensure enough sauce is used, cover during the first half of baking, and avoid overcooking.