I love making baked ziti with ricotta cheese because it’s super similar to a classic lasagna, but without the hassle of those big floppy lasagna noodles. Instead, simple tube-shaped pasta (ziti) is layered with a flavorful meat sauce and plenty of ricotta and mozzarella cheese to make this easy Italian casserole that nobody can get enough of. If you enjoy this recipe for baked ziti, I know you’ll also love my Pizza Casserole recipe! It’s similar, but made with ground beef, pepperoni, and all of your favorite pizza toppings mixed in.
The Best Baked Ziti with Sausage
Ingredients In Baked Ziti
Here’s what you need to make this amazing casserole:
Italian Sausage: Look for “bulk” Italian sausage at the grocery store. This just means that the meat hasn’t been put into casings. If you can only find traditional sausage, remove it from the casings first and then it will be ready to go. Ziti: Ziti is, of course, the traditional pasta in baked ziti, but penne, medium shells, or any other type of short pasta can work in its place. Use what you have. Tomatoes and Sauce: To add the right amount of moisture to the casserole we’re using 1 can of diced tomatoes plus a jar of your favorite marinara sauce. If you make homemade sauce, feel free to use it here. Otherwise, just choose a jarred marinara that you enjoy. Garlic and Onion: For rich, savory, home-cooked flavor. Ricotta Cheese: This is what makes the best baked ziti wonderfully creamy and extra satisfying. Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese: To add even more cheesiness!
Complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.
How To Make Baked Ziti
Recipe Tips
Don’t overcook the pasta: When making baked pasta, you should cook it just to al dente. The pasta will soften a bit more in the oven, so if it’s overcooked to start with, you’ll end up with mush. Be careful with the foil: Just like lasagna, you want to cover the dish, but not so tightly that the foil touches the mozzarella cheese. If it is, the cheese will melt and stick to the foil rather than to the pasta. Make it ahead: You can prepare and assemble this baked ziti casserole and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake according to the instructions, but add at least 15 extra minutes to the bake time to account for the cold pasta.
How to Store Baked Ziti
Refrigerator: Once baked, store either the entire casserole or portions of it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 4-5 days this way. Freezer: You can freeze the entire casserole after you’ve baked it, or smaller portions if you like. Reheat in the oven either frozen or thawed. It will take 45-60 minutes to reheat fully.
What To Serve With Baked Ziti
Turn this hearty pasta dish into a wonderful family meal with fresh bread or garlic bread and a simple salad. My homemade caesar salad is also a wonderful side for baked ziti. For dessert, try a classic Italian treat, like Tiramisu or Cannoli. This Easy Baked Ziti recipe with sausage and ricotta is a delicious, classic, and hearty meal that is sure to satisfy your hungriest eaters! I know that this recipe will stay in your dinner rotation because everyone will ask for it again, so make sure to Pin this post! © Little Sunny Kitchen
