baked ziti with sausage recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
baked ziti with sausage recipe
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The Best baked ziti with sausage recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite baked ziti with sausage recipe. This dish has been a staple in my household for years, and it’s a perfect combination of flavors and textures that everyone in the family loves. The rich flavor of the sausage, the tanginess of the tomato sauce, and the creaminess of the ricotta cheese all come together to create a truly satisfying meal.

I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it never fails to impress my family and friends. Whether we’re having a big family gathering or just a simple weeknight dinner, this baked ziti with sausage is always a crowd-pleaser. One of the things I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make.

It’s a one-dish wonder that can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights when I don’t have a lot of time to cook. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – I can serve it as a main course, or as a side dish alongside some garlic bread or a green salad. But what really sets this recipe apart is its health benefits.

By using lean sausage and whole wheat pasta, I can feel good about serving this dish to my family without worrying about excessive calories or carbs. And let’s not forget about all the nutrients packed into the vegetables – from the vitamin C in the tomatoes to the fiber in the broccoli, this dish is a nutritional powerhouse. As for where this recipe comes from, I’m not entirely sure – but I do know that it’s a classic Italian-American dish that’s been around for decades.

Whether you’re Italian-American or just a lover of good food, this baked ziti with sausage is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

Baked Ziti with Sausage

Baked Ziti with Sausage

4.7 from 1354 votes

A hearty and comforting dish featuring ziti pasta baked with sausage and tomato sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb ziti pasta
1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup tomato sauce
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3Add ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
4Drain and set aside.
5While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
6Add Italian sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
7Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
8In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
9Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
10Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper to the skillet.
11Stir well to combine.
12Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
13In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, sausage, and tomato sauce.
14Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
15Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
16Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
17Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
18Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Pot
Baking dish
Mixing bowl
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

Watch Video Of How Baked Ziti with Sausage Works

Baked ziti with sausage is always a good idea. It is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking and its perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time or freeze for later. You can serve it at family gatherings, potlucks, or even as a weeknight dinner.

Its a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love and the flavors are sure to satisfy. I love that this dish can be made in advance and reheated for a quick and easy meal. It also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and have it on hand for busy weeknights. Plus, its a great way to use up leftover vegetables or add some extra veggies to the dish.

I always keep a few cans of tomatoes and some sausage in the fridge for a last-minute meal. Its a comforting and satisfying dish that will never disappoint. Its a recipe that my kids love to help me make and its become a family favorite. So, give it a try and see for yourself why this dish is a classic.

I promise you wont be disappointed. You can serve it at family gatherings, potlucks, or even as a weeknight dinner. Its a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love and the flavors are sure to satisfy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Ziti with Sausage

Q: What type of sausage should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using sweet Italian sausage for its mild flavor and tender texture. You can also use hot Italian sausage if you prefer a spicier kick.

Q: Can I make this recipe without ricotta cheese?

Yes, you can omit the ricotta cheese if you’re watching your calories or prefer a lighter sauce. However, keep in mind that ricotta adds moisture and creaminess to the dish.

Q: How long does it take to cook this recipe?

Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30-40 minutes. Just remember to let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Q: Can I use low-carb pasta instead?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat pasta with low-carb options like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

Cool the dish completely before refrigerating or freezing it. When reheating, cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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