Baked Ziti with Sausage is a classic dish that many enjoy for its comforting flavors and satisfying textures. This layered pasta meal features ziti pasta, savory sausage, and a blend of rich cheeses. It is not only easy to prepare but also allows for various ingredient adjustments based on personal preferences. Understanding its history and preparation can enhance appreciation for this dish. Next, let’s explore the recipe details and what makes it special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Baked ziti with sausage is a dish that many people find appealing for several reasons.
First, it combines hearty ingredients like pasta, sausage, and cheese, creating a satisfying meal. The layers of flavors, from the savory sausage to the creamy ricotta, enhance its taste.
Additionally, the preparation is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. This dish is also versatile; it can be adapted with different cheeses or vegetables to suit personal preferences.
Finally, baked ziti is perfect for gatherings, as it serves many and can be made ahead, allowing for stress-free entertaining.
History
Originating from Italian-American cuisine, ziti has a rich history that reflects the blending of cultural influences.
This dish became popular in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as Italian immigrants adapted traditional recipes with available ingredients. Ziti, a tubular pasta, was ideal for baking, allowing for layers of flavors and textures.
Over time, it evolved into a beloved comfort food, featuring various ingredients like sausage, ricotta, and mozzarella.
The dish symbolizes family meals and gatherings, showcasing how cultural heritage can transform and thrive in new environments, making it a staple in many households today.
Recipe
Baked Ziti with Sausage is a comforting dish that combines al dente pasta, savory sausage, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese, all baked to perfection. Ideal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this dish is not only delicious but also relatively easy to prepare. The layers of flavors and textures make it a crowd-pleaser, while the warming spices and hearty ingredients ensure that it’s satisfying and filling.
To begin, you’ll want to gather your ingredients and set up your kitchen for an efficient cooking experience. The process involves boiling the pasta, cooking the sausage, and assembling everything in a baking dish before it goes into the oven. With a little preparation and timing, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dry ziti pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Olive oil
- Cooking spray
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions, but set the timer for 2 minutes less to achieve al dente. Drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the tomato sauce and season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10-15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the beaten eggs, then stir in the chopped parsley, basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Begin assembling the baked ziti by layering half of the cooked pasta and sausage mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dollop the ricotta mixture over the pasta in small portions, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese.
- Add the remaining pasta and sausage mixture on top, followed by the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Cover the dish with foil to retain moisture during baking.
- Bake covered for 25-30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Let the baked ziti rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
For the best results, use high-quality ingredients to enhance the overall flavor of your baked ziti. Be careful not to overcook the pasta during boiling, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the sausage for meatballs or a vegetarian option. Allow the dish to rest before slicing, making it easier to serve, and enjoy with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Satisfaction often comes from sharing a delicious meal, and Baked Ziti with Sausage embodies this principle well. This dish is not only hearty and comforting but also versatile, allowing for various ingredient adjustments to suit personal tastes.
It can be enjoyed at family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends. Preparing Baked Ziti fosters a sense of togetherness, as everyone can gather around the table to enjoy a warm serving.
Whether opting for a traditional recipe or exploring creative twists, this meal remains a crowd-pleaser that encourages connections through food.
Ultimately, Baked Ziti with Sausage is a delightful addition to any dining experience.
FAQ
When preparing a dish like Baked Ziti with Sausage, many individuals may have questions about the recipe, cooking techniques, and ingredient substitutions. Common inquiries include whether to use fresh or dried herbs, or how to store leftovers.
It is advisable to use quality ingredients for the best flavor. For a vegetarian option, one can omit the sausage and add vegetables instead. If spice is desired, hot Italian sausage or red pepper flakes can be used.
Lastly, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days or frozen unbaked for up to 3 months, ensuring continued enjoyment.
Ingredients
- Ingredients
- 1 pound dry ziti pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage sweet or spicy
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
- Olive oil
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions, but set the timer for 2 minutes less to achieve al dente. Drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the tomato sauce and season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10-15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the beaten eggs, then stir in the chopped parsley, basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Begin assembling the baked ziti by layering half of the cooked pasta and sausage mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dollop the ricotta mixture over the pasta in small portions, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese.
- Add the remaining pasta and sausage mixture on top, followed by the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Cover the dish with foil to retain moisture during baking.
- Bake covered for 25-30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Let the baked ziti rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
- For the best results, use high-quality ingredients to enhance the overall flavor of your baked ziti. Be careful not to overcook the pasta during boiling, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the sausage for meatballs or a vegetarian option. Allow the dish to rest before slicing, making it easier to serve, and enjoy with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.