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.