If you are looking for ultimate comfort food that brings cheesy, saucy goodness straight to your plate, this Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe is the answer. Imagine tender pasta coated in a rich, creamy tomato sauce, dotted with savory Italian sausage, and layered with luscious ricotta and gooey mozzarella cheese, all baked to bubbling, golden perfection. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug and makes for a crowd-pleaser whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a special gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward but each plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal in this dish. From the hearty meatiness of Italian sausage to the creamy balance of ricotta and the melty mozzarella topping, every component matters.
- 1 pound uncooked ziti or penne pasta: Use a tubular pasta that holds sauce well for maximum yum.
- 1 pound Italian sausage: Adds bold, savory flavor and a nice texture contrast to the smooth sauce.
- 1 medium onion (chopped): Gives a sweet, aromatic base when sautéed with the sausage.
- 4-5 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses a fragrant punch that complements the savory sausage and tomatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings in classic Mediterranean herbs that enhance the sauce complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick of heat that warms without overpowering.
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The rich and slightly tangy heart of the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: Adds softness and silkiness to balance the acidity of tomatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and elevating all flavors.
- Pepper (to taste): Freshly ground gives a subtle spicy note and depth.
- 1 teaspoon white sugar: Cuts the acidity of the tomato sauce, rounding out the flavor.
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese: Provides creamy pockets of mild, luscious cheesy goodness inside the layers.
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, sharp contrast sprinkled on top.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella: Melts beautifully for that irresistible, bubbly golden crust.
- Chopped fresh parsley and/or basil (optional): Brightens the finished dish with fresh herbal notes and color.
How to Make Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F, positioning the rack in the top third to get the cheese nice and browned later. Next, get a large pot of salted water boiling and cook the ziti just shy of al dente—about 2 to 3 minutes less than package instructions—so it doesn’t overcook during baking. Drain and set aside; this ensures perfectly tender pasta in the final dish.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage and Onion
While the pasta cooks, heat a pot over medium and add the Italian sausage along with the chopped onion. Stir occasionally, letting them brown for about 7 to 10 minutes until the meat is cooked through and the onions soften to sweet, translucent perfection. This savory base fills the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that hints at the feast to come.
Step 3: Build Flavor with Garlic and Seasonings
Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Let these cook for about one minute, just enough to release their fragrant oils without burning. This step layers in that signature Italian flavor profile that makes this baked ziti so irresistible.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Tomato Sauce
Add the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and a touch of sugar to the pot. The cream softens the acidity of the tomatoes while sugar balances the tang, resulting in a smooth, rich sauce. Let it all warm through and come together for about five minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta directly into the pot with the sauce and sausage mixture. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so every piece of pasta is coated in that luscious sauce. This melding of flavors and textures is what makes the Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe so satisfying.
Step 6: Layer the Casserole
To assemble, spoon half of the pasta mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch casserole dish—it forms a hearty bottom layer. Next, dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the pasta; no need for precision, those creamy pockets will melt delightfully in the bake. Finally, spread the remaining pasta over the ricotta to create a top layer that will soak up all those rich flavors during baking.
Step 7: Top with Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the freshly grated parmesan and shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until the sauce bubbles and the cheese melts through. Finish under the broiler just for a couple of minutes, watching carefully until the cheese browns beautifully—an irresistible golden crust that beckons you to dig in.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let the dish rest a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil to add a pop of color and freshness that balances the rich baked flavors. This is the moment to savor every cheesy, saucy bite!
How to Serve Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
A simple scattering of chopped fresh parsley or basil elevates the dish visually and adds a fresh herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a light drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or a few red pepper flakes sprinkled on top can also add exciting flavor contrasts.
Side Dishes
For a well-rounded meal with this hearty baked ziti, consider serving a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, crusty garlic bread for sopping up sauce, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. These crunchy and fresh sides complement the creamy, cheesy main dish perfectly without overwhelming it.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or make the meal extra special, serve the baked ziti in individual ramekins for personal portions, layered attractively to show the ricotta mid-layer. Alternatively, sprinkle some extra parmesan and fresh greens just before serving for a vibrant, restaurant-worthy finish right at your dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to keep it moist and flavorful. Leftovers taste wonderful warmed up with a sprinkle of fresh cheese or herbs to revive their charm.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish either before or after baking. For best texture, assemble the casserole but do not bake it; wrap it tightly in plastic and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake straight from frozen at 375°F for about 45-60 minutes until bubbly. If freezing after baking, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, though the texture might be slightly softer.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to prevent drying out, about 15-20 minutes until heated through. For quicker reheating, a microwave works well; just cover the dish loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring if possible, to evenly warm that cheesy goodness without overheating.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Ground beef works fine if you prefer a milder flavor, though Italian sausage offers more seasoning and a distinctive taste that really makes this baked ziti shine. You can also try spicy sausage for a bit more kick.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the Italian sausage and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant to the sauce for a hearty vegetarian version. You could also try meat substitutes, but the fresh Italian seasonings and cheeses keep it full of flavor.
What pasta can I substitute for ziti?
Ziti is traditional, but penne, rigatoni, or even shells work beautifully because their tubular shapes hold sauce well. Avoid very thin spaghetti or angel hair as they don’t layer or hold sauce as nicely in baked dishes.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
While it would change the dish’s character, you can substitute ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives. Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream to keep the sauce creamy. Be mindful the flavor and texture will differ somewhat.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
The key is to cook the pasta just shy of al dente, usually 2-3 minutes less than package instructions, because it continues cooking in the oven. This way, it remains perfectly tender but firm and not mushy after baking.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe embodies everything you want in a comforting Italian-American classic—layered, cheesy, rich, and bursting with flavor. It’s both simple enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for guests, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Give it a try and make it your new go-to for cozy dinners that always leave everyone asking for seconds.
Print
Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This classic Baked Ziti recipe layers tender pasta with a rich sausage and tomato cream sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan for a hearty, comforting Italian-American casserole perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound uncooked ziti or penne pasta
Sauce and Meat
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon white sugar
Cheeses
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
For Serving (Optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley and/or basil
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F and place the rack in the top third position. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti for 2-3 minutes less than the package instructions recommend to keep it slightly firm. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage and Onion: In a separate large pot, add the Italian sausage and chopped onion. Cook over medium heat until the sausage is browned and the onion softens, about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and, if using, crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about one minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar. Allow the sauce to gently heat through for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta back into the pot with the sauce. Toss well to coat all the pasta evenly with the flavorful sauce.
- Layer the Casserole – First Layer: Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch casserole dish to form the bottom layer.
- Add Ricotta Cheese: Dollop the ricotta cheese over the first pasta layer. It does not need to be perfectly spread; placing dollops here and there will suffice and create creamy pockets in the bake.
- Layer the Casserole – Second Layer: Spoon the remaining pasta mixture over the ricotta to form the top layer. Do not stir.
- Top with Cheeses: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese uniformly over the top of the pasta layers.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes until the mixture is hot and bubbly.
- Broil for Browning: Turn on the broiler and watch carefully as you brown the cheese topping to a golden crust, which should take a few minutes. Remove from the oven once golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and/or basil if desired before serving warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef or turkey for the Italian sausage if preferred.
- Use low-fat cream or milk for a lighter version, but the texture and richness may vary.
- For extra flavor, add chopped fresh basil into the sauce while it simmers.
- If you don’t have ricotta cheese, cottage cheese can be used as a substitute.
- Allow the baked ziti to rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving.
