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Turkey Sausage Baked Ziti

This Turkey Sausage Baked Ziti is cozy, cheesy, and packed with flavor! A hearty, comforting pasta casserole perfect for family dinners and leftovers.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces ziti pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing the sausage and aromatics
  • 1 pound turkey sausage casings removed
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes canned
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 9 to 11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage, breaking it up as it cooks until browned and cooked through.
  • Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in crushed tomatoes, add dried oregano and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta with ricotta cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until evenly coated.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread half of the tomato and sausage sauce on bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the pasta mixture on top. Repeat with remaining sauce and pasta mixture.
  • Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
  • Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired before serving.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Cheese Grater

Notes

  • Don’t overcook pasta; it should be slightly firm as it will finish cooking in the oven.
  • Use turkey sausage with red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or add crushed red pepper to sauce.
  • Puree crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce texture if preferred.
  • Let baked ziti rest after baking to help it set for easier serving.
  • For extra gooeyness, add a layer of shredded mozzarella between pasta layers.