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Cheesy Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage

Cheesy Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage: Easy Family Comfort Meal

Cheesy Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage is a comforting dish perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13-Inch Baking Dish
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Wooden Spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Ziti pasta This tubular pasta holds the sauce and cheese beautifully.
  • 1 pound Italian sausage Choose your favorite type, whether spicy or mild, for a flavor boost.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Adds richness and helps cook the sausage and vegetables.
  • 1 small Onion, finely chopped Provides a sweet and savory base for the sauce.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
  • 28 ounces Crushed tomatoes The heart of the sauce, giving it a rich, tangy taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano Brings a classic Italian flavor to the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried basil Adds a fresh, aromatic touch.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
  • 2 cups Ricotta cheese Adds richness and a smooth texture.
  • 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully, creating a gooey topping.
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the dish.
  • to taste Fresh basil, chopped Adds color and freshness when serving.

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
  • While the sausage is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. Optionally, mix in some shredded mozzarella cheese.
  • In the skillet with the cooked sausage, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the sausage sauce. Gently fold in the ricotta cheese mixture and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Cheesy Baked Ziti with Sausage is a comforting dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings. Customize with different meats or cheeses as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Baked Ziti, Cheesy Pasta, comfort food, dinner, Family Meal, Italian Sausage
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