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Cozy Cheesy Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage

cozy cheesy baked ziti with italian sausage - featured image
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A comforting baked ziti recipe featuring layers of melty cheeses, savory Italian sausage, and tender pasta baked to golden perfection. Perfect for quick, hearty family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ziti pasta, cooked al dente
  • 1 pound (450 g) Italian sausage, sweet or mild, casings removed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 28 ounces (800 g) crushed tomatoes, canned
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese, whole milk
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • A handful fresh basil, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Add 1 pound (450 g) of ziti pasta and cook for 8-9 minutes until al dente. Drain well in a colander and set aside.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound (450 g) Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove excess fat if necessary.
  4. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  5. Stir in 28 ounces (800 g) crushed tomatoes, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
  6. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese, 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan. Add a pinch of salt and pepper and stir until smooth.
  7. Add the cooked ziti pasta to the skillet with the sauce and stir gently to coat all pieces evenly.
  8. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta and sauce mixture. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta and gently spread it. Repeat with the remaining pasta and cheese mixture. Top with the remaining 1 cup (100 g) mozzarella cheese.
  9. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Let the baked ziti sit for 5-10 minutes after taking it out of the oven. Sprinkle with freshly chopped basil before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; aim for al dente as it will cook further in the oven. Drain excess fat from sausage to avoid greasiness. Tent with foil if top browns too quickly. Let rest before serving for cleaner slices. Can substitute turkey sausage for leaner protein or use gluten-free pasta for gluten-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked ziti, Italian sausage, cheesy pasta bake, family dinner, comfort food, easy recipe

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