Baked Ziti with Italian Beef Sausage
A hearty and comforting baked ziti made with Italian beef sausage, layers of creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauces
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Meats
- 1 pound Italian beef sausage Cooked and browned
Cheeses
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking sausage
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian beef sausage, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Assembly
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, browned sausage, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, then layer on the remaining pasta mixture. Finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Baking
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil if desired.
Notes
Store and reheat leftovers by covering tightly and refrigerating for up to 3-4 days or freezing for up to 3 months. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, covering with foil until heated through.