Cheesy Baked Ziti with Sausage

If you're craving a comforting, cheesy, and hearty pasta dish, this Cheesy Baked Ziti with Sausage is the perfect meal! Made with savory Italian sausage, a rich tomato sauce, and layers of gooey melted cheese, this baked pasta dish is easy to make and great for feeding a crowd. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Cheesy & Comforting: Layers of melted mozzarella and parmesan make this dish irresistible.

• Easy & Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead and bake when ready!

• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 12 oz ziti pasta (or penne)

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)

• 1 small onion (diced)

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce

• 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 egg

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

3. Make the Sauce: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute, then add the marinara sauce and crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with 1 egg, ½ cup mozzarella, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

5. Assemble the Baked Ziti:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a greased baking dish, spread a layer of sauce, followed by half of the cooked pasta.
   • Add dollops of the ricotta mixture, then layer more sauce and pasta.
   • Top with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

6. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve & Enjoy: Let it cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot!

Tips for the Best Baked Ziti

• For Extra Flavor: Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce.
• Make It Vegetarian: Swap sausage for roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Assemble ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready!

This Cheesy Baked Ziti with Sausage is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and absolutely delicious! Enjoy! 🍝🧀✨