Creamy Baked Ziti Recipe

Indulge in the comforting embrace of our Creamy Baked Ziti Recipe, a classic Italian dish that effortlessly combines rich flavors and creamy textures. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this pasta bake features ziti pasta coated in a luscious mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and savory marinara sauce. With its cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. Easy to prepare and make-ahead friendly, you can customize it with your choice of proteins or vegetables to suit everyone’s taste. Dive into this delicious comfort food that warms hearts and feeds hungry bellies!

Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time40 mins

Total Time1 hr

Course: Main Cuisine: Italian Keyword: For added flavor, include red pepper flakes while cooking the sausage. Customize with veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Servings: Serves approximately 6 people Calories: 480kcal Author: Tisha

Ingredients

12 ounces ziti pasta
1 pound ground Italian sausage
15 ounces ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
3 cups marinara sauce
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
In a skillet, brown the Italian sausage in olive oil. Stir in marinara sauce and seasonings.
In a bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and basil if using.
Combine cooked ziti with the sausage mixture and fold in the cheese mixture.
Layer half of the ziti mix in a baking dish; top with remaining mix and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbly.

Nutrition