If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Pasta Bake with Sausage (Baked Ziti) Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender pasta enveloped in a savory sausage and marinara sauce, layered with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan that crisps up beautifully in the oven. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that’s surprisingly simple to make yet so satisfying to eat — perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Pasta Bake with Sausage (Baked Ziti) Recipe. Each component plays a role in building depth of flavor, balancing creaminess, and adding that irresistible golden finish.
- 1 lb ziti or penne pasta: The perfect structure for holding sauce and cheese in every bite.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed: Adds a rich, savory punch with a hint of spice if you like some heat.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides sweetness and a savory base when cooked down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers aromatic warmth and depth to the sauce.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce: The tomato foundation that ties all flavors together with acidity and sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that enhances the sauce’s herbal notes.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Perfect for adding a subtle fiery kick without overpowering the dish.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate every ingredient.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For that melty, stretchy, cheesy goodness on top and throughout.
- 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese: Brings creaminess and helps create those delightful pockets of softness inside the bake.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and contributes a beautiful golden crust.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Provides a fresh, vibrant touch that brightens the final dish.
How to Make Pasta Bake with Sausage (Baked Ziti) Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your ziti or penne until just before al dente — you want pasta with just a little bite because it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain it well and set it aside. This simple step ensures your pasta won’t become mushy after baking and will perfectly soak up the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage along with diced onion until fully cooked and the onion is tender. Adding minced garlic toward the end of cooking helps preserve its fragrant flavor — cook it just about a minute. Then, stir in your marinara sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes. This melding of flavors creates a rich, savory sauce that forms the backbone of your bake.
Step 3: Assemble the Pasta Bake with Sausage (Baked Ziti) Recipe
Grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish and begin layering by spreading a thin layer of sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking. Next, add half of the cooked pasta, dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese evenly over the top, and sprinkle half of the mozzarella. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, ricotta, and mozzarella, finishing with the remaining sauce and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. This careful assembly creates that satisfying combination of saucy, cheesy, and meaty textures you’re after.
Step 4: Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil to let the cheese on top brown and become bubbly — bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Watching those golden patches emerge is one of the most rewarding parts, signaling it’s perfectly cooked and ready to indulge.
Step 5: Rest & Serve
Once out of the oven, give your pasta bake about 5 to 10 minutes to rest. This helps the layers settle and makes serving easier. For a final flourish, toss on some freshly chopped basil or parsley to add color and a burst of fresh flavor. Now, get ready to dive into a plateful of cozy deliciousness that’s sure to impress.
How to Serve Pasta Bake with Sausage (Baked Ziti) Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only make the dish visually appealing but also elevate its flavor with bright, herbal notes. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan just before serving can also add an extra touch of savory goodness.
Side Dishes
This Pasta Bake with Sausage (Baked Ziti) Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a fresh baguette also makes for an irresistible accompaniment to soak up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this pasta bake in individual ramekins for a charming and personalized touch, ideal for parties or intimate dinners. You could also add roasted cherry tomatoes on top before baking for a burst of color and sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory sausage.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pasta bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors develop even more meaning after resting, and it’s a convenient, ready-to-eat meal perfect for busy days.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, this recipe freezes well. Assemble the bake but do not bake it; cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish covered with foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. Adding a splash of water or extra marinara on top before reheating can help keep it moist and fresh-tasting.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for this Pasta Bake with Sausage (Baked Ziti) Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use spicy Italian sausage, sweet, or even breakfast sausage depending on your taste preference. Just make sure to remove the casing before cooking.
What cheese works best if I don’t have ricotta?
Cottage cheese is a great substitute for ricotta in this recipe, offering a similar texture and creaminess. You can also blend it for a smoother consistency if you prefer.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the sausage for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or your favorite vegetables to keep it hearty and delicious without meat.
Is it better to use fresh or dried pasta for this bake?
Dried pasta like ziti or penne works best because it holds up well when baked and doesn’t get overly mushy. Fresh pasta tends to be more delicate and may not withstand the baking process as well.
How spicy is the pasta bake if I use the optional red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that enhances the flavor without overpowering it. You can adjust the amount or omit them if you prefer a milder dish.
Final Thoughts
This Pasta Bake with Sausage (Baked Ziti) Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, comfort, and incredible flavors to the dinner table with ease. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a staple in any busy household or for sharing with friends. It’s straightforward to make, endlessly customizable, and utterly satisfying — go ahead and make it your new go-to meal tonight!
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Pasta Bake with Sausage (Baked Ziti) Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A comforting and hearty Pasta Bake with Sausage, combining al dente pasta, savory Italian sausage, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, baked to golden perfection and garnished with fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb ziti or penne pasta
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Cheese and Garnish
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti or penne pasta until just shy of al dente, usually about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Make Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage along with the diced onion until the sausage is fully cooked and the onion is softened, about 7-8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the jar of marinara sauce, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Assemble: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish. Add half of the cooked pasta over the sauce. Dot spoonfuls of ricotta or cottage cheese evenly over the pasta, then sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layering with the remaining pasta and meat sauce. Finish with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, golden, and bubbling.
- Rest & Serve: Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to firm up slightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese if preferred.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make ahead, assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
