Classic Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage and Cheese
A hearty and comforting baked ziti dish featuring Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses, perfect for family dinners.
Login to save, add to a plan, rate, or make a copy.
Ingredients
Yields 4 servings
- (1 pound) Italian sausage, casings removed
- (12 ounces) ziti pasta
- (3 cups) marinara sauce
- (1 cup) ricotta cheese
- (2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
- (1/2 cups) grated Parmesan cheese
- (1 teaspoon) dried oregano
- (1 teaspoon) garlic powder
- (1/2 teaspoons) salt
- (1/4 teaspoons) black pepper
- (2 tablespoons) fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190 °C).
- 2
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook 12 ounces of ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 3
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 pound of Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Stir in 3 cups of marinara sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 2/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional).
- 5
In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, sausage mixture, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined.
- 6
Transfer the ziti mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly and top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- 7
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- 8
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- 9
Let the baked ziti cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Recipe actions