Cheesy Baked Ziti

Cheesy Baked Ziti stands out as a beloved Italian-American dish loved for its layers of gooey, saucy deliciousness. This hearty meal combines ziti noodles with flavorful Italian sausage, smooth tomato-cream sauce, and a trio of cheeses—ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan. It's a filling treat that brings comfort whether you're hosting friends or just need something tasty for dinner tonight.

INGREDIENTS

• Fresh parsley/basil: Optional, for garnish
• Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups, shredded, for that stretchy pull
• Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, grated, for nutty flavor
• Ricotta cheese: 8 oz, creating a creamy middle
• Sugar: 1 tsp, cuts the tomato tang
• Salt and pepper: 1/2 tsp salt and pepper as needed
• Heavy cream: 1 cup, makes everything silky
• Crushed tomatoes: 1 (28 oz) can, forms the sauce base
• Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp, optional heat
• Italian seasoning: 1/2 tsp, adds traditional flavor
• Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced, for punch
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped, adds sweetness
• Italian sausage: 1 pound, browned for meaty goodness
• Uncooked ziti or penne pasta: 1 pound, slightly underdone for perfect baking

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 9:

Broil until cheese turns golden after baking uncovered for 20 minutes.

Step 8:

Sprinkle the rest with parmesan and mozzarella.

Step 7:

Put half your pasta mix in a 9x13 dish and spread ricotta on top.

Step 6:

Mix in your drained pasta thoroughly.

Step 5:

Pour in tomatoes, cream, salt, pepper, and sugar. Warm for 5 minutes.

Step 4:

Toss in garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper if you want heat. Cook another minute.

Step 3:

Brown your sausage with onions in a pot.

Step 2:

Cook ziti in salty water about 3 minutes less than normal. Drain it.

Step 1:

Get your oven hot at 375°F.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Warm leftovers in your microwave or oven when ready to eat again.
• Keep extras in a sealed container in your fridge up to 4 days.

Helpful Notes

• Want more heat? Throw in extra red pepper flakes.
• Don't like sausage? Ground beef or turkey works great too.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef's Tip: Try adding a tiny bit of nutmeg to your ricotta for extra flavor magic.

Perfect Pairings for Baked Ziti

This ziti tastes amazing with a simple Caesar salad, some crunchy garlic bread, or easy bruschetta. The rich cheesy dish really needs those fresh, crisp sides to balance everything out.

Customizing Your Baked Ziti

You can swap the ricotta for cottage cheese if you want something lighter. Try mixing in some cooked spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies too. You can also make it ahead and keep it in the fridge until you're ready to bake, which is super handy on busy days.

FAQs

Can I freeze Baked Ziti?

Sure can! Wrap it tight and freeze before or after cooking for up to 3 months.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese works great, or try mixing mascarpone with cream cheese.

How do I prevent dry pasta?

Use plenty of sauce, don't cook it too long, and cover with foil if needed to lock in moisture.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the meat and toss in mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers instead.

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Summary

This baked ziti dish brings together spiced sausage with tangy tomato sauce and an irresistible mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan. Cooked pasta absorbs all the flavors, creating a comforting meal. Layer everything with care, finishing with a cheesy crust broiled for extra crunch. Fresh herbs brighten up this versatile dish, and it’s perfect for gatherings or meal prep. Pair with a crisp salad or buttery garlic bread for an unforgettable feast.