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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the rich aroma of bubbling tomato sauce, savory sausage, and melty cheese. Whether you’re feeding a family, impressing guests, or simply craving a hearty meal, baked ziti with sausage checks all the boxes. Best of all, you only need five simple ingredients to bring this dish to life.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something comforting but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With this guide, you’ll learn how to make a crowd-pleasing baked ziti that’s as delicious as it is simple.
Ingredients for 5-Ingredient Baked Ziti with Sausage
Here’s everything you need to whip up this quick and satisfying dish:
| Ingredient | Details |
|---|---|
| Ziti pasta | 12 ounces, cooked al dente |
| Italian sausage | 1 pound, mild or spicy |
| Marinara sauce | 3 cups, your favorite brand or homemade |
| Mozzarella cheese | 2 cups, shredded |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup, grated |
Optional Add-Ins
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Ricotta cheese for added creaminess
- Red pepper flakes for a kick
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Baked Ziti
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. Remember, the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so avoid overcooking it at this stage.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage
- While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing (if necessary) and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, browned sausage, and marinara sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer half of the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Add the remaining ziti mixture and finish with the rest of the cheese.
Step 4: Bake It to Perfection
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Tips for Making the Best Baked Ziti with Sausage
Choose Quality Ingredients
- Pasta: Use high-quality ziti for the best texture. Brands like Barilla or De Cecco are great choices.
- Sausage: Opt for Italian sausage with a robust flavor. If you like heat, go for the spicy variety.
- Marinara Sauce: A good sauce can make or break this dish. If you’re short on time, choose a premium jarred marinara like Rao’s or make your own.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta
- Slightly undercooked pasta ensures it won’t become mushy after baking.
Experiment with Cheese
- Blend in other cheeses like ricotta or provolone for extra richness.
Make It Ahead
- Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an extra 10 minutes to the covered baking time.
FAQs About Baked Ziti with Sausage
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While ziti is traditional, you can use penne, rigatoni, or any sturdy pasta that holds sauce well.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Cover the dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions.
Q: Can I freeze baked ziti?
A: Yes, baked ziti freezes beautifully. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Is there a vegetarian version?
A: You can substitute the sausage with plant-based crumbles or extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Conclusion: Make This 5-Ingredient Baked Ziti Tonight!
Why wait to enjoy a dish that’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and loved by everyone? This baked ziti with sausage is your ticket to a stress-free meal that tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Try it tonight and watch it become a family favorite.
Call to Action: Ready to give it a go? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s make some magic. Don’t forget to share your creation and tag us on social media!
This simple, flavorful recipe proves that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, baked ziti with sausage is a dish that delivers every single time.