Cheesy Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage

Indulge in this ultimate comfort food with a twist! The ooey gooey cheese combined with savory Italian sausage will have your taste buds singing.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 box ziti pasta
• 1 jar marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F and cook the Italian sausage in a skillet until browned.
• Cook the ziti pasta as per package instructions and drain.
• In a large bowl, mix together the cooked sausage, ziti pasta, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with extra mozzarella cheese.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Enjoy!

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of ziti?

A: Yes, you can substitute ziti with penne, rigatoni, or any other similar pasta shape.

• Q: Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

A: Absolutely, feel free to use any type of sausage you prefer in this recipe.

• Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.

• Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for future enjoyment.

Helpful tips:

• Cook the ziti pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when baked.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat in the dish.
• Top the baked ziti with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Expert Secrets:

• Ensure all ingredients are well mixed for a balanced flavor in every bite.
• Pre-cook the Italian sausage for added depth of flavor.
• Don’t skimp on the cheese – the more, the merrier in this dish!