Save to Pinterest This baked ziti with sausage is the ultimate comfort food for family gatherings or quiet nights in. Creamy ricotta, savory Italian sausage, and bubbling melted mozzarella come together for a dish that is always a crowd-pleaser.
I have brought this ziti to potlucks and weeknight dinners alike, and it always disappears fast. I started making baked ziti in my first apartment because it stretched my grocery budget and made me feel at home after a long day. Now it’s my go-to when someone needs a pick-me-up.
Ingredients
- Ziti pasta: Key for holding the sauce in every bite. Use classic ziti or penne if that’s what you have
- Italian sausage: Adds depth and richness. Try to choose good-quality sausage from your butcher or local grocer
- Marinara: Provides sweet, tangy tomato flavor. Homemade or a high-quality jarred sauce works beautifully
- Ricotta: Gives creaminess and richness. Opt for whole milk ricotta for best texture
- Mozzarella: Melts into a gooey topping. Shred your own from a fresh block for better melt
- Salt and pepper: Enhances all the other flavors. Use freshly cracked pepper for extra zing
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta and Sausage:
- Boil the ziti in a large salted pot until just shy of al dente. It will cook more in the oven. For the sausage, remove the casings if needed and brown it in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. This draws out the flavor and gets those crispy bits everyone loves.
- Mix Everything Together:
- Combine the drained pasta, sausage, marinara, and ricotta in a mixing bowl. Stir until everything is evenly coated and the ricotta is distributed in pockets for little creamy surprises. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before the bake.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Spoon the mixture into a lightly greased baking dish. Top generously with shredded mozzarella, spreading it out so you get gooey cheese in every scoop. Bake in a preheated 375 degree oven for about 30 minutes. The cheese will be bubbly and golden and the edges should be crisp.
Save to Pinterest I always use fresh sausage when possible because it gives the whole dish a savory backbone. My kids love to help sprinkle the cheese on top before we pop it in the oven—making it a fun family project.
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely before refrigerating. Store in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat in the oven loosely covered with foil and a splash of water to revive the creamy texture. Microwave works for quick lunches but oven is best if you want to keep that crispy top.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use spicy or sweet Italian sausage depending on your preference. Turkey or even vegetarian sausage works for a lighter version. Cottage cheese can stand in for ricotta in a pinch and any tubular pasta will sub for ziti.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a big green salad and garlic bread for a classic Italian-American dinner. Roasted broccoli or sautéed spinach adds color and balance to the meal. For extra coziness, add a side of minestrone or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
Cultural and Historical Context
Baked ziti became a staple in Italian-American cooking because it brought together affordability, comfort, and a taste of home. Much like lasagna, it was meant to feed big families but with faster prep and no fuss. Many Italian families have their own twist on baked ziti, which is why no two versions ever taste exactly the same.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use roasted zucchini or eggplant mixed in for a summery touch. Add chopped spinach and mushrooms for a hearty winter version. Swap in butternut squash or roasted tomatoes in early fall.
Success Stories
Friends have told me this ziti is their favorite meal to bring to new parents or neighbors in need. Once I brought a pan to a backyard picnic and there was not a single noodle left at the end of the night. It is truly the kind of meal that makes people feel seen and cared for.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Assemble everything up to the baking step and cover tightly with foil. Label and freeze. When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen at 350 degrees until heated through, about one hour. Add extra cheese before baking if you want it super gooey.
Save to Pinterest This baked ziti will be a staple for your next family gathering or easy weeknight dinner. Each bite is hearty, cheesy, and perfect for sharing.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different sausage types?
Yes, mild or spicy Italian sausage both work. You can also try turkey or plant-based sausage for variety.
- → Should the pasta be fully cooked before baking?
Cook the ziti until just al dente, as it will continue to soften while baking with sauce and cheese.
- → Is ricotta necessary, or can I substitute another cheese?
Ricotta adds creaminess, but cottage cheese or even a béchamel sauce can be used as alternatives.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, assemble in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes if chilled.
- → What side dishes pair well with baked ziti?
Serve with garlic bread, roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad to complete the meal.