Name: Baked Ziti Sausage Ricotta: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 100 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound Italian sausage, sweet or hot (or a mix!), casings removed; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce; 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 pound ziti pasta; 15 ounces ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Baked Ziti Sausage Ricotta: Just the name conjures up images of bubbling cheese, rich tomato sauce, and the comforting aroma of Italian herbs filling your kitchen, doesn't it? This isn't just a pasta dish; it's a warm hug on a plate, a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something truly extraordinary. I remember my grandmother making this every Sunday, and the entire family would gather around the table, eager to dig in.

While the exact origins of baked ziti are debated, its roots are firmly planted in the Italian-American culinary tradition. It's a dish born from resourcefulness and a desire to feed a crowd, taking readily available ingredients and layering them into a satisfying and flavorful casserole. It’s a dish that speaks of family, tradition, and shared meals.

What makes baked ziti sausage ricotta so universally loved? It's the perfect combination of textures – the tender ziti pasta, the creamy ricotta cheese, the savory sausage, and the tangy tomato sauce, all topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella. It's also incredibly convenient! You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it when you're ready, making it ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or a comforting weeknight meal. Plus, who can resist that cheesy, bubbly top? Get ready to experience a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen with this classic and comforting recipe.

Ingredients:

1 pound Italian sausage, sweet or hot (or a mix!), casings removed
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 pound ziti pasta
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparing the Sausage and Tomato Sauce:

Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is no longer pink and is nicely browned. Drain off any excess grease. I like to use a paper towel to soak up any extra fat.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be! I usually let it go for about 45 minutes.

Cooking the Ziti and Preparing the Ricotta Mixture:

Cook the Ziti: While the sauce is simmering, cook the ziti pasta according to package directions, but cook it al dente. This is important because the pasta will continue to cook in the oven. If you overcook it now, it will be mushy in the baked ziti. Drain the pasta well. I usually reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, just in case the baked ziti seems a little dry when assembling.
Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, lightly beaten egg, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. This ricotta mixture adds a creamy and cheesy layer to the baked ziti.

Assembling the Baked Ziti:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the sausage and tomato sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Make sure every piece of ziti is covered in that delicious sauce!
Layer in a Baking Dish: Spread about 1/3 of the pasta mixture in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. I like to use a glass baking dish, but a metal one works too.
Add Ricotta Layer: Dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta layer. Try to spread it evenly, but don't worry if it's not perfect.
Sprinkle with Mozzarella: Sprinkle about 1/3 of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta layer.
Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers: another 1/3 of the pasta mixture, the remaining ricotta mixture, and another 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese.
Top with Remaining Pasta and Cheese: Top with the remaining pasta mixture and the remaining mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and a nice golden crust.

Baking the Ziti:

Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help to keep the top from browning too quickly and ensure that the inside is heated through. Bake for 20 minutes.
Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Rest: Let the baked ziti rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to cut and serve.

Tips and Variations:

Spice it up: If you like a spicier dish, use hot Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables to the sauce, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
Use Different Cheeses: You can substitute other cheeses for the mozzarella, such as provolone or fontina.
Make it Ahead: You can assemble the baked ziti ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Freeze it: Baked ziti freezes well. Assemble the dish, but don't bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before baking.
Meatless Option: Omit the sausage for a vegetarian version. You can add extra vegetables or use a meat substitute.
Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil or oregano to the sauce at the end of cooking for a brighter flavor.
Breadcrumbs: For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the mozzarella cheese before baking. Toss the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter or olive oil for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Baked ziti is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but it's also great served with a side salad and some garlic bread. It's perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy weeknight dinner. Enjoy!

Enjoy your homemade Baked Ziti!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! Our Baked Ziti Sausage Ricotta – a symphony of Italian flavors baked to bubbly, cheesy perfection. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that's surprisingly simple to make. The combination of the savory sausage, creamy ricotta, tangy tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked ziti creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). But why is this Baked Ziti Sausage Ricotta so special? It's more than just a pasta bake; it's an experience. It's the warmth that fills your kitchen as it bakes, the anticipation as the cheese melts and bubbles, and the satisfaction of serving a dish that everyone genuinely loves. It's the perfect meal for a cozy night in, a potluck gathering, or a special occasion. Plus, it's incredibly versatile! Looking for serving suggestions? I love to serve this Baked Ziti Sausage Ricotta with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread is also a fantastic accompaniment, perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. And speaking of versatility, don't be afraid to experiment with variations! If you're not a fan of sausage, you can easily substitute it with ground beef, ground turkey, or even leave it out altogether for a vegetarian option. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy Italian sausage. You can also swap out the ricotta cheese for cottage cheese for a slightly different texture and flavor. Another fun variation is to add some vegetables directly into the ziti bake. Sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would all be delicious additions. Just be sure to cook them before adding them to the dish to ensure they're tender. For an extra layer of flavor, try using a combination of cheeses. Mozzarella is a classic choice, but you could also add some provolone, Parmesan, or even a little bit of Gruyere for a more complex flavor profile. The possibilities are endless! Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to your own taste preferences. That's the beauty of cooking, isn't it? I'm so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of making and sharing this delicious Baked Ziti Sausage Ricotta. It's a dish that's sure to become a family favorite. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece! I promise you won't be disappointed. Once you've made it, I'd absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and comments in the comments section below. I can't wait to see your creations and hear your stories. Happy cooking!