Baked Ziti with Sausage and Ricotta
A bubbling dish of baked ziti with sausage fills your kitchen with rich aromas that promise a comforting meal. Layers of pasta, juicy sausage, and creamy ricotta meld together under a golden, bubbly crust of melted cheese. This one-dish wonder is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck favorite.
For a twist, try using spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick, or swap out the ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter option. Feel free to add in sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to boost the nutritional value and flavor. Make it ahead by assembling earlier in the day, then simply bake it when you're ready to eat.
Serve with a simple green salad and crusty bread to soak up all the savory sauce. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this baked ziti is sure to please everyone around your table.
How to Make It
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1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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2
Cook the ziti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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3
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
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4
Add the sausage to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
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5
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, marinara sauce, ricotta, half of the mozzarella, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
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6
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
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7
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
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8
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.