Easy Baked Ziti
A comforting and delicious baked ziti recipe with layers of gooey cheese, ziti pasta, and rich tomato sauce, perfect for family gatherings and warm evenings.
Ingredients
Pasta & Sauce
- 1 pound ziti pasta Feel free to substitute with penne or fusilli.
- 1 jar 24 ounces marinara sauce Choose your favorite brand. A homemade version adds a personal touch.
Meat & Cheese
- 1 pound Italian sausage Use sweet or spicy, or swap for ground turkey or a vegetarian option.
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese This creamy addition helps keep the dish rich and indulgent.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Go for whole milk mozzarella for a richer taste, or part-skim for a healthier option.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese This adds a lovely depth of flavor.
Flavorings
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic adds a vibrant kick.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano Use fresh if you have it for an extra flavor boost.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to your palate.
- Fresh basil for garnish Optional, but it adds a lovely freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the ingredients.
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti until al dente, usually about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half the mozzarella, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
Cooking
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture, followed by half of the sausage, and sprinkle with Parmesan. Repeat with the remaining pasta, sausage, and top with the remaining mozzarella.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
- Let the dish rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in individual containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.