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Cheesy baked ziti with Italian sausage is the quintessential comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any dining table. This hearty dish, with its layers of creamy cheeses, savory sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta, has garnered a devoted following among food lovers everywhere. Its rich flavors and delightful textures create a satisfying meal that appeals to both the young and the young at heart, making it a go-to choice for family gatherings, potlucks, and weeknight dinners.

Cheesy Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage

Discover the comforting delight of Cheesy Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage, a dish that combines creamy cheeses, savory sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta. This hearty meal is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. With its versatility, you can customize it to suit your taste, whether adding veggies or choosing different cheeses. Enjoy this classic recipe that brings warmth and satisfaction to every table, creating memorable dining experiences.
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Ingredients
  

12 ounces ziti pasta

1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 egg

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

        Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the sausage and cook until the onion is soft, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

          Make the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

            Mix the Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan. Mix until well combined.

              Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked ziti and the sausage-tomato sauce until the pasta is well coated.

                Layer the Dish: In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta and sausage mixture on the bottom. Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the top. Repeat with the remaining pasta and ricotta. Top everything with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

                  Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                    Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the baked ziti sit for about 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve hot and enjoy!

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8