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?
- Q: Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
- Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can substitute ziti with penne, rigatoni, or any other similar pasta shape.
A: Absolutely, feel free to use any type of sausage you prefer in this recipe.
A: Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.
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!