Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Ziti with Sausage is the ultimate comfort food. The savory sausage gives a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish, while the cheese and pasta bring that creamy and satisfying texture that everyone loves. It’s easy to make, can feed a large crowd, and is perfect for meal prep or making ahead. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different sauces, vegetables, or cheese, making it perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
1 lb ziti pasta
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the ziti pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Add the marinara sauce to the sausage and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, sausage and sauce mixture, and the ricotta cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine.
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 6-8 servings.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Substitute the sausage with vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version of the dish.
Cheese Variations: Swap the ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or mascarpone for a different texture. You can also add additional cheeses like provolone or cheddar for extra flavor.
Spicy Version: Use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ziti or penne pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. If freezing, allow it to cool completely before covering and storing in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for baked ziti?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta such as penne, rigatoni, or mostaccioli in place of ziti. Just make sure it is a pasta that can hold up to the baking process.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish ahead of time, assemble it, and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking from the refrigerator.

Can I use ground beef instead of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef for the sausage. However, you might want to add extra seasonings like fennel seeds, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes to mimic the flavor of Italian sausage.

How do I make the ziti less greasy?

To reduce grease, make sure to drain any excess fat from the sausage after cooking. You can also use lean sausage for a less greasy option.

Can I use a store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought marinara sauce. For a more homemade touch, you can add herbs or extra garlic to the sauce.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the sausage and replace it with vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian baked ziti.

What other cheeses can I use in this recipe?

Feel free to use other cheeses like provolone, fontina, or gouda for a unique twist on the dish.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or onions to the sauce or layer them in with the pasta for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I make the dish spicier?

To make the dish spicier, use spicy Italian sausage or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce. You can also add diced jalapeños or chili powder.

Can I make Baked Ziti with Sausage in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in a slow cooker. Layer the pasta, sauce, and cheese in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours until bubbly and heated through.

Conclusion

Baked Ziti with Sausage is an easy, delicious, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a meal for the family, this recipe is sure to please everyone. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and melted cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food that will have you coming back for seconds!