Calling all pasta and comfort food lovers! This recipe for Baked Ziti offers a delightful and satisfying casserole perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or potlucks. Made with flavorful Italian sausage, a rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti:
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for feeding a family or a large group.
- Easy and Doable: Made with readily available ingredients and simple steps, it’s ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: Italian sausage adds a depth of flavor, and the rich tomato sauce creates a satisfying base.
- Versatile: Feel free to customize the recipe with additional ingredients like vegetables or different cheeses.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepped ahead of time and baked when ready, making it a convenient option for potlucks.
The Secret Ingredient?
This recipe deviates from traditional baked ziti by omitting ricotta cheese and using Italian sausage for added flavor. The sausage browns and releases its delicious juices, infusing the sauce with richness.
Building Your Baked Ziti Paradise:
- Ziti Pasta: The classic choice for this dish, providing a great vessel for the sauce and cheese.
- Italian Sausage: Ground sausage adds savory depth and helps create a flavorful base.
- Tomato Sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade version.
- Mozzarella Cheese: A key ingredient for that gooey, melty goodness on top.
- Optional Additions: Feel free to add other ingredients like ricotta cheese, vegetables (spinach, mushrooms, peppers), or different cheeses (Parmesan, provolone).
Ready to Bake Up Some Comfort? Here’s a basic outline:
Ingredients:
- Olive oil
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Ground Italian sausage
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Crushed tomatoes or your preferred tomato sauce
- Ziti pasta, cooked according to package instructions
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Optional additions (see above)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Crumble the Italian sausage into the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- In a separate pot, cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the prepared tomato sauce mixture.
- (Optional) Stir in any additional ingredients you’d like to include.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips:
- Use room temperature cheese for even melting.
- Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Final Thoughts:
This Baked Ziti recipe is a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of pasta casseroles. With its simple preparation, crowd-pleasing flavor, and customizable nature, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. So, fire up your oven and get ready to enjoy a comforting and satisfying baked ziti experience!
