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Nothing quite beats the comforting hug of a bubbling pasta casserole, and this Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe is a shining star in that realm. Loaded with layers of perfectly cooked pasta, a luscious blend of Italian sausage and marinara sauce, and an irresistible combination of creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, this dish brings warmth, heartiness, and so much flavor to your table. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make yet feels like a special occasion every time you bake it. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients—each one adds something unique, from the rich savory depth of Italian sausage to the creamy texture of ricotta cheese that ties everything together. Fresh garlic and onions build layers of flavor, while the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning bring that classic Italian vibe you crave.
- 1 (1-pound) box ziti rigati: Or penne if you prefer, pasta with a ridged surface that holds sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon salt: For properly seasoning the pasta water, enhancing pasta flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and prevents sticking when sautéing the aromatics and sausage.
- 1 medium onion, finely diced: Provides a sweet, savory base flavor when cooked down.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with a fragrant, zesty punch.
- 1 pound bulk Italian sausage: The hearty, spiced protein that makes this dish satisfying and meaty.
- 2 (24-ounce) jars marinara sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade for that comforting tomato base.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevates the flavor profile with a subtle earthiness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential to balance flavors and bring the sauce to life.
- 1 (15-ounce) container whole milk ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and a mild tang that softens the sausages.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, a perfect topping to enhance cheesiness.
- 1 (8-ounce) package shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a stretchy, gooey finish.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This initial step preps your space for baking and ensures your ziti won’t stick, guaranteeing that perfect ease of serving later on.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring about 2 quarts of water to a boil in a large stockpot, seasoning it generously with 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the ziti rigati and cook it until just al dente—this means tender but still with a little bite, so it holds up well in the oven without getting mushy. Once done, drain and set it aside, ready to be enveloped in all that savory goodness.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Sausage
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the finely diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent and soft, which usually takes a few minutes. Add the minced garlic next, sautéing it for about a minute until fragrant. Now crumble in the bulk Italian sausage and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain off any excess fat to keep your sauce from getting greasy.
Step 4: Combine Sauce and Seasonings
Pour the two jars of marinara sauce into the skillet with the sausage and onions, then sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning. Season with a generous pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper, stirring everything until well combined and heated through. This sauce is rich and hearty, the perfect partner for your cooked pasta.
Step 5: Layer Pasta and Cheese
Gently fold the cooked pasta into the sauce until each piece is well coated. Spoon half of this mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth it evenly. Next, stir the ricotta cheese until creamy and dollop it over the pasta layer in even spoonfuls. Sprinkle the grated parmesan evenly on top, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella. This layering builds that luscious cheesy texture everyone loves.
Step 6: Finish the Layers and Bake
Add the remaining pasta and sauce on top as a second layer, smoothing it out. Top generously with the rest of the mozzarella cheese to create that irresistible gooey crown. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and slide it into the oven to bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The cheese melts and the casserole warms through, coming together beautifully.
Step 7: Rest and Optional Broil
Remove the foil and let the dish rest for about 5 minutes so the ziti sets and is easier to serve. If you love a slightly browned, bubbly top, return the uncovered dish to the oven for the last 5 minutes of baking. This final touch adds a lovely golden crust that elevates the whole experience.
How to Serve Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh burst of color and flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top just before serving. A light dusting of extra parmesan cheese or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also add a lovely finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Keep sides simple to balance the richness. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables pairs wonderfully. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread makes for a perfect companion to soak up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. This not only looks charming but also helps with even reheating. You can also layer in sliced roasted vegetables between pasta layers for added texture and nutrition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesy baked ziti keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal that’s easy to reheat.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or busy weeknights. Assemble the ziti in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. Remove foil for the last few minutes to revive that melty cheese goodness and crisp the edges slightly.
FAQs
Can I make this Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Italian sausage and consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or your favorite vegetables to keep the dish hearty and flavorful.
What kind of cheese is best to use?
A combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan is ideal for creamy texture and flavor depth. You can swap mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a slightly different taste.
Can I use a different pasta shape instead of ziti?
Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or even rigati penne work perfectly well since their ridged surfaces hold the sauce nicely.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can assemble the baked ziti a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready to eat, just bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold.
How can I make the cheese topping more golden and bubbly?
Uncover the casserole during the last 5 to 10 minutes of baking or switch your oven to broil for a minute or two, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe is the kind of dish you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again—it’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and packed with irresistible flavors. Whether you keep it classic or put your own spin on it, this baked ziti promises to fill your kitchen with warmth and your table with smiles. Give it a try soon, and get ready for some serious “yum” moments!
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Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Cheesy Baked Ziti recipe is a comforting and hearty Italian-American casserole featuring tender ziti pasta baked in a flavorful sausage and marinara sauce, layered with creamy ricotta, grated Parmesan, and melted mozzarella cheeses. Perfect for family dinners, this dish combines savory meat, rich cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta baked to bubbly perfection in under an hour.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 (1-pound) box ziti rigati (can substitute penne)
- 1 tablespoon salt
Sauce and Meat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound bulk Italian sausage
- 2 (24-ounce) jars marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese
- 1 (15-ounce) container whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 (8-ounce) package shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prepare for baking.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring about 2 quarts of water to a boil in a large stockpot. Add 1 tablespoon salt, then stir in the ziti pasta and cook until just al dente, stirring occasionally. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce and Meat: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Crumble in the Italian sausage and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat from the meat mixture, then return the skillet to heat.
- Add Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in the marinara sauce and dried Italian seasoning into the sausage and onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring it is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Layer the Pasta and Cheese: Spoon half of the pasta and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Stir the ricotta cheese in its container until smooth, then dollop it evenly over the pasta. Sprinkle the grated parmesan and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Add Remaining Layers: Add the remaining pasta mixture as a second layer in the baking dish. Top this layer with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the Ziti: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the casserole is heated through. For a browned, toasted cheese top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to set before serving. This allows the layers to firm up for easier slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the Italian sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
- You can prepare the dish a day ahead and refrigerate before baking; increase baking time slightly if baking straight from the refrigerator.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses for the best melting and flavor results.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
- To enhance flavor, add fresh basil or parsley as garnish before serving.
