Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large stock pot, bring about 2 quarts of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt, then the ziti. Cook until just al dente, stirring occasionally. Drain and set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the bulk Italian sausage, crumbling it with a spoon. Cook until browned and drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Return the sausage mixture to heat and add the marinara sauce along with the Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly.
- Fold the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring that it’s evenly coated.
- Transfer about half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Stir the ricotta cheese in its container until smooth, then drop dollops over the pasta layer, followed by sprinkling half of the mozzarella and all of the parmesan cheese.
- Add the rest of the pasta and sauce mixture on top, finishing with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. For a beautifully browned cheese topping, uncover during the last 5 minutes of baking.
What to serve it with
Cheesy baked ziti pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette and warm garlic bread on the side for a complete meal. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or even a light soup to balance out the richness.
How to store
To keep leftovers fresh, allow the baked ziti to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Reheat in the oven until warmed through to preserve the cheesy texture.
Helpful cooking tips
- When cooking the pasta, make sure to undercook it slightly (al dente) because it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Experiment with adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- To elevate the flavor, try using homemade marinara sauce or mixing in some fresh herbs.
Creative twists
Feel free to mix things up! Add your favorite vegetables or swap the beef sausage for chicken or turkey. You can even play around with the cheeses; for a bit of a kick, add pepper jack or toss in some feta for a tangy twist.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation time is around 15-20 minutes, plus 25 minutes of baking. That’s less than an hour total for this delicious meal!
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Absolutely! Baked ziti freezes well. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before placing it in the freezer.
Can I substitute the sausage?
Yes! Ground turkey or even a mixture of crumbled tofu and seasoning can work well for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Enjoy crafting this cheesy baked ziti and making it a memorable meal for those you love!
