Italian Sausage & Ricotta Baked Ziti

This Italian Sausage & Ricotta Baked Ziti is rich, cheesy, and bursting with classic Italian flavors for a perfect comforting meal.

Prep Time20

Cook Time45

Total Time1 5

Servings: 6 servings

12 ounces ziti pasta perfect tubular pasta to hold sauce and cheese
1 pound Italian chicken sausage casings removed, adds savory spiced flavor with 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
28 ounces crushed tomatoes canned, heart of the sauce, rich and slightly sweet
1 teaspoon dried basil adds herbal warmth
1 teaspoon dried oregano 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, perfect for sprinkling
Fresh basil leaves for garnish, adds color and fresh aroma when serving

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

For a gluten-free option, substitute the ziti with gluten-free pasta.
Replace cheeses with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.
Assemble the dish a day ahead for easy weeknight dinners; bake when ready.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze unbaked for up to 3 months.
Use pork or other sausage types if preferred, ensuring they are fully cooked before assembling.