Italian Sausage Baked Ziti

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Italian Sausage Baked Ziti. This dish combines savory Italian sausage, a rich marinara sauce, and layers of gooey cheese, creating a hearty meal that's perfect for busy weeknights and casual family dinners. Easy to prepare and freezer-friendly, this baked ziti is sure to impress at any gathering. With its crowd-pleasing flavors and satisfying texture, it's a beloved classic that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time40 mins

Total Time55 mins

Course: MAIN DISHES Cuisine: Italian Keyword: For added flavor, use a high-quality marinara sauce like Rao's. Customize by adding vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms. Servings: Serves approximately 6 people Calories: 460kcal Author: Tisha

Ingredients

16 oz dried ziti pasta
1 lb ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
32 oz marinara sauce
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup Pecorino Romano cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Cook the ziti in salted water until al dente, then drain.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage with olive oil until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add minced garlic, marinara sauce, and red pepper flakes; simmer for about 10 minutes.
Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture until well coated.
Layer half of the pasta mixture in the baking dish, followed by half of both cheeses. Repeat with remaining pasta and top with remaining cheeses.
Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutrition