Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the rack in the top third of the oven for optimal browning.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook for 2-3 minutes less than the package instructions recommend. This will ensure the pasta is slightly undercooked, letting it finish baking in the casserole. Drain and set aside.
- In a separate pot or deep skillet, add the Italian sausage and chopped onion. Cook over medium heat for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the onion is softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding burnt garlic.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and white sugar. Stir to combine and let the mixture heat through on medium for about 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce pot and toss well to coat the noodles evenly with the creamy sausage tomato sauce.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch casserole dish as the base layer.
- Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese over the pasta layer. It doesn’t need to be perfectly spread; just distribute it to create creamy pockets.
- Spoon the remaining pasta mixture over the ricotta layer, spreading evenly without stirring to keep the layers distinct.
- Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella over the top layer of pasta.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes, until bubbling at the edges.
- Switch the oven to broil, watching closely as the cheese melts and turns golden brown; this should take just a few minutes.
- Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and/or basil if desired before serving.
How to Serve Baked Ziti with Sausage and Cheese Recipe
Baked ziti is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a simple salad or garlic bread takes it to the next level. A fresh Caesar salad or mixed greens dressed with balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish beautifully. For a cozy night in, serve alongside a glass of red wine to make your meal even more special.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is often the case), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave for a couple of minutes or pop it back in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This baked ziti also freezes well—just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. Always remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To really elevate your baked ziti, consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor. Experimenting with different cheeses can also yield delicious variations; for example, swapping mozzarella with gouda for a smokier profile. Make sure to season your sauce well—taste as you go to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
Creative Twists
There are countless ways to make this dish your own! Here are a few variations you might consider:
- Meatless Version: Use a blend of sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach instead of sausage.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Cheesy Delight: Add a blend of different cheeses like fontina or asiago to mix things up and enhance creaminess.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare baked ziti?
From prep to finish, expect to spend about an hour on this recipe, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute ziti with other varieties like penne or even bowtie pasta for a fun twist.
How should I store the leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to thaw in the fridge before reheating!
