Cheesy, Perfect Classic Baked Ziti Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy, comforting, and packed with flavorful Italian sausage, this classic baked ziti is a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Let’s dive into making this irresistible dish.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 ½ pounds ground Italian sausage, hot or mild
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed fire roasted tomatoes
• Kosher salt & fresh ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
• 16 ounces low-moisture mozzarella cheese, grated by hand & divided
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
• ¼ cup basil chiffonade, divided

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly spray or grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large deep skillet or dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot and sizzling, add the ground sausage. Use a wooden utensil to break up the sausage and cook until browned and lightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the onion and sauté until tender and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and brown sugar until well combined. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Season with salt, pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and garlic powder, mixing thoroughly.
4. Step 4: Reduce heat to low and let the meat sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes.
5. Step 5: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente.
6. Step 6: Reserve ⅓ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta. Add the cooked pasta back into the pot with the meat sauce along with the reserved pasta water. Stir to combine and remove from heat.
7. Step 7: To assemble, spoon half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish in an even layer. Dollop the ricotta cheese over the pasta in sections. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and 2 tablespoons of parmesan cheese evenly over the ricotta, then top with half of the basil chiffonade. Add the remaining pasta on top in an even layer and finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
8. Step 8: Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
9. Step 9: Let the baked ziti cool in the dish for 10 minutes. Garnish with the remaining basil chiffonade and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Swap Italian sausage for ground beef or turkey for a lighter option.
• Use fresh mozzarella instead of shredded for a creamier texture.
• Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra heat.
• For a vegetarian version, omit sausage and add sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.
• Fresh basil chiffonade adds brightness, but dried basil can be used in a pinch.

Storage

Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until hot.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the baked ziti up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What type of pasta works best for baked ziti?

Ziti is traditional and holds up well in baking, but penne or rigatoni are good substitutes if ziti is unavailable.