Sausage Baked Ziti Recipe
This Sausage Baked Ziti is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender pasta, flavorful sausage, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, this classic Italian-American favorite is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Mixing Spoon
- Baking dish (9x13-inch)
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta or penne
- 1 pound Italian sausage mild or spicy, casings removed
- 3 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Sausage:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Mix the Sauce:
- In the skillet with the cooked sausage, stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sausage sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the pasta is fully coated.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with a layer of mozzarella cheese. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top and finish with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the baked ziti cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy!