Save A comforting Italian-American classic featuring tender pasta, savory sausage, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked under a blanket of melted mozzarella.
I've always loved baking this dish for family dinners because it brings everyone together and fills the house with such a warm aroma.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 450 g (1 lb) ziti or penne pasta
- Meats: 450 g (1 lb) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 medium onion finely chopped, 3 garlic cloves minced, 800 g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional), 1 tsp sugar, salt and black pepper to taste
- Cheeses: 250 g (9 oz) whole milk ricotta cheese, 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 for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) Lightly grease a 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish
- Step 2:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Cook the ziti until just al dente (about 2 minutes less than package directions) Drain and set aside
- Step 3:
- While the pasta cooks heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add the Italian sausage breaking it up with a spoon and cook until browned about 5 6 minutes
- Step 4:
- Add the onion and sauté for 3 4 minutes until softened Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute
- Step 5:
- Add crushed tomatoes tomato paste oregano basil red pepper flakes (if using) sugar salt and pepper Simmer uncovered for 10 12 minutes stirring occasionally Adjust seasoning to taste
- Step 6:
- In a large bowl combine the cooked pasta sausage-tomato sauce ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan Mix gently to combine
- Step 7:
- Spread half the pasta mixture in the prepared baking dish Sprinkle with half of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan Add remaining pasta then top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan
- 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 bubbly
- Step 9:
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired
Save This dish always reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone enjoys seconds and shares stories around the table
Required Tools
Large pot Large skillet Mixing bowl 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish Knife and cutting board Spoon or spatula Aluminum foil
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (pasta) milk (cheeses) and may contain egg (depending on pasta/ricotta brand) Contains pork (if using traditional Italian sausage) Always verify ingredient labels for allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 610 Total Fat 30 g Carbohydrates 54 g Protein 32 g
Save This baked ziti is perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better the next day
Recipe Help & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Ziti or penne pasta are ideal as they hold the sauce well and maintain texture after baking.
- → Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, turkey or chicken sausage can be substituted for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook the pasta slightly less than al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven during baking.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate it a few hours in advance, then bake just before serving for convenience.
- → What herbs enhance the flavors best?
Oregano, basil, and fresh parsley add aromatic notes that complement the sausage and tomato sauce beautifully.