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Baked Ziti

This comforting, cheesy pasta bake combines Italian sausage, garlic, and marinara sauce, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce
  • 1 pound ziti pasta The star of the dish, ziti's tubular shape holds onto the sauce beautifully.
  • 2 24 oz jars marinara sauce (divided) Rich and tangy, this will coat the pasta in delightful sauce throughout.
Meat and Aromatics
  • 1 pound Italian sausage (casing removed) Adds savory, juicy elements and a bit of spice.
  • 1 medium yellow onion (diced) Provides a sweet aroma when sautéed, essential for the flavor base.
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic Infuses the dish with a robust, aromatic quality.
Cheeses
  • 16 ounces ricotta or cottage cheese (divided) Adds a creamy texture and a mild taste that balances the dish.
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided) Melts to create gooey, cheesy goodness that everyone loves.
  • optional Parmesan cheese (optional garnish) Adds a nutty finish.
  • optional Minced fresh basil or parsley (optional garnish) Brings freshness and color, making the dish visually appealing.
Seasonings
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning Enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes A delightful hint of heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread ¼ cup of marinara sauce evenly to coat the bottom of a 9x13” casserole dish.
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse in cold water, and set aside.
Cooking
  1. In a large skillet, over medium-high heat, add the Italian sausage, onion, and garlic. Cook until the sausage is no longer pink, about 10 minutes.
  2. Add the remaining marinara sauce to the skillet. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
  3. Begin layering in the casserole dish: add half of the cooked ziti, spread 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and half of the ricotta or cottage cheese. Pour half of the sauce over this layer and repeat.
  4. Top with the remaining cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake for about 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
  5. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.

Notes

For variations, try different cheeses or add vegetables. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.