Save A classic Italian-American casserole featuring tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, savory Italian sausage, and bubbling layers of creamy cheese. Perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
This baked ziti has been a favorite at our family table for years, evoking cozy memories of shared dinners and comforting flavors.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 450 g (1 lb) ziti pasta
- Meats: 450 g (1 lb) Italian sausage (mild or hot, casings removed)
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped, 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Sauce: 800 g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes, 400 g (14 oz) canned tomato sauce, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp dried basil, 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), 1 tsp sugar, Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Cheese: 250 g (9 oz) ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, 120 g (1 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 340 g (12 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- Fresh Herbs (optional): 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti pasta until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook Italian sausage until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5 minutes. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes more. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Step 4:
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Step 5:
- In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, half of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir in chopped parsley or basil if desired.
- Step 6:
- Add cooked ziti to the sauce and mix until well coated.
- Step 7:
- Spread half of the ziti and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta in spoonfuls. Repeat layers with remaining pasta and ricotta mixture. Top evenly with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Step 8:
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Step 9:
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra herbs if desired.
Save Sharing this dish always brings our family together, sparking joyful conversations and full hearts.
Notes
Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables. Pairs well with a simple green salad and crusty garlic bread.
Required Tools
Large pot, Large skillet, Mixing bowls, 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish, Foil, Colander, Wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (pasta), dairy (cheese, ricotta), and egg. Contains pork (Italian sausage). Check sausage and cheese labels for possible additional allergens.
Save This baked ziti is sure to become a favorite in your home, perfectly balancing comfort and flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Ziti pasta is traditional, but penne or rigatoni can be excellent substitutes for similar texture and sauce hold.
- → Can I use spicy sausage instead of mild?
Absolutely. Using hot Italian sausage with extra red pepper flakes adds a pleasant kick to the dish.
- → How should I prepare the cheese layers?
Mix ricotta with egg and half the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, then layer it alternately with the pasta and sauce for creamy pockets throughout.
- → What are good additions to enhance vegetables in this meal?
Sautéed spinach or mushrooms can be stirred into the sauce or pasta for extra flavor and nutrition.
- → How long should the baked ziti rest before serving?
Allow it to rest about 10 minutes after baking so flavors meld and it sets for easier serving.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it and refrigerate before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.