Italian Sausage & Ricotta Baked Ziti

If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing pasta bake that’s rich, cheesy, and brimming with flavor, Italian Sausage & Ricotta Baked Ziti is the answer. This hearty dish combines tender pasta, savory chicken sausage, and creamy ricotta cheese, all smothered in a homemade tomato sauce and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s a perfect meal for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Italian Sausage & Ricotta Baked Ziti isn’t just another pasta bake. It’s a celebration of classic Italian flavors that come together effortlessly. The combination of seasoned chicken sausage and smooth ricotta adds layers of texture and depth, while the baked cheese topping offers that irresistible golden crust everyone loves. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be prepped ahead, making your weeknight dinners easier without sacrificing taste. If you enjoy recipes like Baked Ziti With Ricotta, this one’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

What Goes In

• 12 ounces ziti pasta – The perfect tubular pasta to hold sauce and cheese.
• 1 pound Italian chicken sausage, casings removed – Adds savory, spiced flavor with a lighter protein option.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the sausage and aromatics.
• 1 small onion, chopped – Builds the base flavor of the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – For that signature Italian aroma and taste.
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes – The heart of the sauce, rich and slightly sweet.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – Adds herbal warmth.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – A classic Italian seasoning.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To bring out all the flavors.
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese – Creamy and mild, adds luxurious texture.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for that gooey top.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Sharp, nutty, and perfect for sprinkling.
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish – Adds color and fresh aroma when serving.

Cook’s Kit

• Large pot – For boiling the ziti pasta.
• Large skillet – To cook the sausage and make the sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring ingredients.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – To assemble and bake the ziti.
• Colander – To drain the pasta.
• Mixing bowls – To combine cheeses and pasta.
• Measuring spoons and cups – For precise seasoning and portioning.

Italian Sausage & Ricotta Baked Ziti Cooking Guide

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Do not overcook; it will continue cooking in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until aromatic. Add the chicken sausage, breaking it up with your spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, around 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer the Tomato Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Ricotta

In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti with the ricotta cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy cheese.

Step 5: Assemble the Baked Ziti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread half of the sausage tomato sauce evenly on the bottom of your baking dish. Layer half of the ricotta pasta mixture on top, then repeat with the remaining sauce and pasta. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

• Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free ziti or penne pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free Cheese: Substitute ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan with plant-based cheese alternatives made from cashews or almonds.
• Garlic and Onion Alternatives: For those sensitive to alliums, try using asafoetida powder sparingly or omit and add extra herbs for flavor.
• Low-Sodium Tomato Sauce: Use no-salt-added crushed tomatoes and adjust seasonings accordingly.

If You’re Curious

This Italian Sausage & Ricotta Baked Ziti is a great way to enjoy the creamy texture of ricotta cheese combined with the savory depth of Italian sausage. If you love exploring similar cheesy pasta bakes, you might want to check out Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells for a delightful vegetarian twist or indulge in the robust flavors of Cheesy Italian Sausage Rigatoni for another sausage-packed pasta delight.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

This baked ziti keeps wonderfully well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place the unbaked assembled dish in a freezer-safe container or cover with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months.

When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until heated through and bubbly. For reheating leftovers, microwave individual portions or warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil to prevent drying out.

Common Questions

Can I use pork sausage instead of chicken sausage?

Absolutely! You can swap the chicken sausage for pork sausage or any other sausage you prefer. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before assembling the dish.

Do I need to cook the pasta before baking?

Yes, the pasta should be cooked al dente before baking. It finishes cooking in the oven, so if it’s undercooked, it may turn mushy after baking.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the entire dish a day before baking. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake when ready. This makes weeknight dinners super convenient.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of ricotta, cottage cheese is a good substitute. For a smoother texture, you can blend it before mixing with the pasta. Alternatively, some use cream cheese for an extra creamy bite.

Explore More

• Baked Ziti With Ricotta – A classic baked pasta recipe that’s rich in cheese and flavor.
• Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells – A vegetarian delight stuffed with creamy ricotta and vibrant spinach.
• Cheesy Italian Sausage Rigatoni – A hearty pasta bake featuring bold sausage and melty cheese.

That’s a Wrap

Italian Sausage & Ricotta Baked Ziti is a timeless dish that brings together the best of Italian comfort food in one satisfying bake. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a hit with anyone who loves cheesy, saucy pasta. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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