Baked Ziti with Sausage

Indulge in the goodness of this hearty Baked Ziti with Sausage! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 jar marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook ziti according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
• In a skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Add marinara sauce and garlic powder, then simmer for 5 minutes.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti, sausage mixture, mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta cheeses. Mix well.
• Transfer ziti mixture to a baking dish, then top with additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy!

Popular questions:

• Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef for Italian sausage if you prefer a different meat option.

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

While ziti works best for this recipe, you can use penne or rigatoni as alternative options.

• Can I omit the ricotta cheese?

Yes, you can leave out the ricotta cheese if you’re not a fan of it, or substitute it with cottage cheese.

• How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Helpful tips:

• Try adding some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the ziti mixture for added nutrition.
• For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage instead of mild.

Expert Secrets:

• To enhance the flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture for a bit of heat.
• For a creamier texture, mix some heavy cream into the ziti mixture before baking.