Baked Ziti is one of those comforting dishes that just hits the spot every time. It’s that warm, cheesy, and hearty meal you can whip up without any fuss, making it perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back gatherings. Imagine pasta cooked just right, wrapped in layers of savory sauce and gooey cheese, ready to bring your family around the table with smiles.
Plus, what’s great about Baked Ziti is how easy it is to make. You can play with flavors and add your favorite ingredients while still keeping it simple. So whether you’re an experienced chef or just starting your cooking adventure, this recipe will have you feeling like a pro in no time. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking your new favorite dish!
Why This Recipe Works
Baked Ziti is a beloved comfort food that combines the richness of Italian flavors with simple cooking techniques. The blend of savory sausage, hearty pasta, and gooey cheese creates a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. This recipe allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a mouthwatering meal perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti
This Baked Ziti recipe delivers an effortless and delicious experience, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser that fills your home with enticing aromas and a sense of warmth and nostalgia. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a dish you’ll return to time and again.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1.25 lbs sweet Italian sausage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 25 oz marinara sauce (recommended: Rao’s)
- 14.5 oz petite diced tomatoes
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, drained and cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Cooking Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish and set it aside for later use.
Cook the Ziti
In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Salt the water generously and cook the ziti according to the package directions until al dente. After draining, set the pasta aside.
Brown the Sausage
In a deep skillet over medium-high heat, add the sweet Italian sausage and break it apart as it cooks until browned. You can drain excess fat if desired to keep it lighter.
Sauté Onions and Garlic
To the skillet with the cooked sausage, add the olive oil, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes mostly tender. This step fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas!
Combine Ingredients
Now, stir in the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, water, dried basil, dried oregano, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well and cover the skillet, letting it simmer for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to develop richly.
Adjust the Seasoning
After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if needed. It’s important to remove the bay leaves before moving on to the next step.
Mix the Ziti and Sauce
Take the cooked ziti and add it to the sauce in the skillet, stirring to ensure every piece is well-coated. Incorporate the fresh mozzarella and parmesan cheese, mixing until slightly melted. This step makes it extra creamy!
Assemble the Baked Ziti
Transfer the delicious mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese for that gooey finish.
Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with lightly greased foil and bake for 20-30 minutes or until the cheese is hot and bubbling. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, top with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve while hot and enjoy the smiles all around!
Serving Suggestions
Baked Ziti pairs wonderfully with a simple garden salad, garlic bread, or a glass of red wine. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside sautéed vegetables or a side of roasted garlic. These additions create a well-rounded dining experience.
Tips for Success
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality marinara sauce and fresh cheeses can elevate the flavor significantly.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since it will continue to cook in the oven, make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese for added flavor. A blend can make the dish even more delightful.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute sausage with mushrooms or a veggie blend for a tasty meatless version.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage if you’re in the mood for some heat.
- Extra Veggies: Incorporate spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost the nutritional value.
Storage Tips
Baked Ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions wrapped securely for up to 3 months. Just remember to reheat thoroughly before serving for the best taste.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While ziti is traditional, you can substitute it with penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you prefer. Each brings its own charm!
How do I make Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Assemble the Baked Ziti as directed, cover it well, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep.
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a lighter alternative that works well and still adds great flavor. A win-win!
How do I intensify the flavor of the sauce?
Consider adding a splash of red wine or a spoonful of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Little tweaks can make a big difference!
Is Baked Ziti a good dish for meal prep?
Definitely! It’s perfect for meal prep, as it reheats very well and maintains its flavor and texture. Make it once for multiple meals!
Baked Ziti is more than just a recipe; it’s a delicious way to bring family and friends together. With its rich flavors and comforting cheese layers, each bite offers a piece of home. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite. Enjoy crafting this dish that combines ease with heartfelt satisfaction!
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Baked Ziti
Baked Ziti is a comforting dish featuring layers of savory sausage, pasta, and cheesy goodness, making it a quick and satisfying meal for any occasion.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1.25 lbs sweet Italian sausage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 25 oz marinara sauce (recommended: Rao's)
- 14.5 oz petite diced tomatoes
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, drained and cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Boil water, salt it, and cook ziti until al dente, then drain.
- Brown sweet Italian sausage in a skillet.
- Sauté onion and garlic in the skillet with olive oil.
- Combine diced tomatoes, marinara, water, herbs, and seasonings; simmer for 30 minutes.
- Mix in cooked ziti and cheeses until slightly melted.
- Transfer to the baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes until bubbling.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Using high-quality ingredients can significantly elevate the dish’s flavor.
Cook the pasta al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Experiment with different cheeses for added depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 900
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 20
- Cholesterol: 50
