Turkey Sausage Baked Ziti

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor and easy to make, look no further than Turkey Sausage Baked Ziti. This hearty casserole combines tender ziti pasta with savory turkey sausage, a rich tomato sauce, and a creamy blend of cheeses, baked to bubbly perfection. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies your soul and makes for fantastic leftovers, too. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a winner every time.

The Upside of Turkey Sausage Baked Ziti

Turkey Sausage Baked Ziti stands out as a healthier twist on the classic baked ziti recipe without sacrificing any of the rich flavors you love. Using turkey sausage instead of pork reduces the fat content and adds a lighter, yet still savory, protein punch. The ziti pasta serves as the perfect vessel to soak up the luscious tomato sauce and melty cheese blend. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal, making cleanup a breeze.

What truly makes this recipe shine is its versatility. You can easily swap in different herbs or cheeses to suit your taste, and it’s a great way to use pantry staples. It’s also incredibly satisfying — each forkful offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, from the slightly crispy cheese on top to the tender noodles and rich sausage beneath. If you enjoy dishes like Italian Sausage Ricotta Baked Ziti, you’ll appreciate the familiar, comforting vibes of this version too.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 12 ounces ziti pasta: This tubular pasta holds sauce beautifully and bakes up perfectly tender.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the sausage and aromatics, adding a subtle richness.
• 1 pound turkey sausage, casings removed: Provides lean protein with a flavorful, slightly spicy profile.
• 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down with the sausage.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential aromatic that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes: The base of the sauce, rich and slightly tangy.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano & 1 teaspoon dried basil: Classic Italian herbs that elevate the sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To balance and brighten the flavors.
• 2 cups ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it adds luscious texture and richness.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating that irresistible gooey top layer.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish to the dish.
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional): For a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large pot: To boil the ziti pasta to al dente.
• Large skillet: For cooking the turkey sausage and sautéing onions and garlic.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the cooked pasta with ricotta and part of the cheese.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Ideal for assembling and baking the ziti.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce and mixing ingredients.
• Cheese grater: For grating Parmesan cheese fresh, if not pre-grated.

Stepwise Method: Turkey Sausage Baked Ziti

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 9 to 11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside. Be careful not to overcook; the pasta will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned and cooked through, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Tomato Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add dried oregano and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with ricotta cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until the ricotta is evenly distributed and the pasta is coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Baked Ziti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread half of the tomato and sausage sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the pasta and cheese mixture on top. Repeat with the remaining sauce and pasta mixture. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and 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 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, for a fragrant, colorful finish.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

• Swap the ziti pasta for spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles to reduce carbs.
• Use a low-carb tomato sauce or make your own with fresh tomatoes and herbs.
• Increase the amount of ricotta and mozzarella for extra creaminess and fat.
• Incorporate more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to bulk up without carbs.

Pro Tips & Notes

• Don’t overcook the pasta in the boiling water; it should still have a slight bite since it will finish cooking in the oven.
• For a spicier kick, use turkey sausage with added red pepper flakes or stir in some crushed red pepper to the sauce.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, puree the crushed tomatoes before simmering.
• Letting the baked ziti sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve.
• For extra gooeyness, add a layer of shredded mozzarella between the pasta layers.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Turkey Sausage Baked Ziti reheats beautifully and makes for convenient lunches or dinners throughout the week. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months — just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For meal prep, assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate it unbaked. When ready to enjoy, bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

Popular Questions

Can I make Turkey Sausage Baked Ziti ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese if I don’t have any?

Cottage cheese is a great substitute for ricotta and provides a similar creamy texture. You can also blend cream cheese with a bit of milk to mimic ricotta’s consistency.

Is turkey sausage the best choice for this recipe?

Turkey sausage offers a leaner option with plenty of flavor, but you can also use chicken sausage or even beef sausage if you prefer. Just ensure the sausage is fully cooked and crumbled before adding to the sauce.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While ziti is traditional, penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni work well because they hold sauce nicely. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the pasta is al dente before baking.

Keep Cooking

• Love baked pasta dishes? Try this Baked Ziti With Ricotta for another creamy, cheesy delight.
• For a twist on sausage pasta, check out the Italian Sausage Ricotta Baked Ziti recipe.
• Craving something with a bit more sauce? Explore homemade marinara sauce recipes to elevate your pasta nights.
• For lighter pasta options, try vegetable-based noodles or whole wheat varieties to add some nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Turkey Sausage Baked Ziti hot from the oven, paired with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for balance. A side of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of that rich sauce. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, this baked ziti is sure to impress and satisfy every craving for a hearty, cheesy pasta meal.

This dish brings together comfort, convenience, and crowd-pleasing flavors in one beautiful casserole. Once you make Turkey Sausage Baked Ziti, it’s destined to become a regular in your recipe rotation for those nights when you want a little indulgence with less fuss. Enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!

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