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My family's absolute favorite pasta dish started right here in my tiny kitchen. This baked ziti combines the perfect blend of Italian sausage melted into creamy ricotta and marinara sauce all hugging perfectly cooked pasta. I've spent years perfecting this recipe and now it's a staple at our Sunday family dinners. Trust me when I say this dish brings everyone to the table with big smiles.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This baked ziti recipe has saved me on countless busy weeknights. It's one of those magical dishes that's simple enough for Monday dinner but special enough for weekend gatherings. The combination of three different cheeses with savory sausage creates layers of flavor that make everyone think you spent hours in the kitchen. Plus you can prep it ahead which is a lifesaver for busy moms.
Essential Ingredients
- Ziti Pasta: 1 lb (450 g) of ziti or similar pasta; cooked al dente according to package instructions for perfect texture.
- Italian Sausage: 1 lb (450 g) of sweet or spicy sausage; sliced into rounds or crumbled for even distribution.
- Marinara Sauce: 2 cups (475 ml) of your favorite marinara; use store-bought or homemade for the best flavor.
- Ricotta Cheese: 1 cup (250 g) of creamy ricotta; adds a rich, smooth layer to the dish.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups (200 g) of shredded mozzarella; melts into a gooey topping.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup (50 g) of grated Parmesan; for extra savory flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: 2 tbsp of chopped parsley or basil; adds freshness and a burst of color.
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp for greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking.
Let's Make It Together
- Prepare the Pasta
- Cook ziti in boiling salted water for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and slice into rounds or crumble.
- Mix the Base
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage, and 1 ½ cups of marinara sauce. Mix well to coat evenly.
- Assemble the Dish
- Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with olive oil. Layer half the pasta mixture, followed by dollops of ricotta, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.
- Bake the Ziti
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve
- Top with chopped parsley or basil and grated Parmesan before serving hot.
My Secret to Perfect Sausage
From years of testing this recipe I've found that the sausage makes or breaks the dish. Sweet Italian sausage is my go to but when my husband's family visits I use the spicy version they love. If you're watching calories turkey sausage works beautifully too. I've even tried plant based options that surprised everyone at the table.
A Delicious Meatless Version
My vegetarian daughter inspired this variation and now it's requested at every gathering. Simply swap the sausage for a medley of roasted zucchini mushrooms and colorful bell peppers. Sometimes I add chickpeas for extra protein. The vegetables create such wonderful flavors that nobody misses the meat.
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What to Serve on the Side
In my house this ziti never stands alone. I love serving it with a big bowl of mixed greens tossed in my homemade vinaigrette. When my kids have friends over I always have warm garlic bread ready too. They love soaking up every last bit of sauce with it.
Storage Tips from My Kitchen
Leftovers taste even better the next day. I store them in my favorite glass containers and they stay perfect in the fridge for 3 days. For reheating I prefer using the oven at 350°F it keeps the cheese perfectly melty. When I'm in a hurry the microwave works too just add a splash of water to keep the pasta moist.
Prep It Now Enjoy It Later
This ziti is my secret weapon for busy weeks. I often put it together on Sunday afternoon pop it in the fridge then bake it fresh for dinner Monday night. Just remember to add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time when it goes in cold. The smell of it baking always brings my family to the kitchen.
Freezer Tips That Work
Sometimes I make two batches and freeze one for later. Use a good freezer dish wrap it well in plastic then foil and it stays perfect for up to 3 months. I usually move it to the fridge the night before I plan to serve it. In a pinch you can bake it straight from frozen just plan for about an hour in the oven.
Playing with Cheese Combinations
The cheese blend in this recipe evolved from countless family dinners. While mozzarella is classic try mixing in some provolone for extra flavor. My Italian grandmother taught me to add a handful of fontina it melts like a dream. Sometimes I sprinkle pecorino romano with the Parmesan for an extra sharp kick.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- You can assemble this baked ziti ahead and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to eat, add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- → What type of sausage works best?
- Both mild and spicy Italian sausage work great in this recipe. Spicy Italian sausage adds an extra kick of flavor to the dish.
- → Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
- Yes, this recipe is very adaptable to vegetables. Baby spinach is a great addition, and you can also try adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.
- → What's the best way to reheat leftovers?
- Cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm through. You can also microwave individual portions, though the texture might be slightly different.
- → Can I freeze this baked ziti?
- This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.