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 a different type of pasta?
  Yes, you can substitute ziti with any type of pasta you prefer.
• Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
  Yes, you can use turkey sausage or any other type of sausage for a different flavor.
• Can I freeze leftovers?
  Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
  Yes, you can use fresh basil or any other fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
• How can I make this dish vegetarian?
  You can omit the sausage and add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a vegetarian version.
• Can I add more cheese?
  Feel free to add more cheese to suit your taste preferences.
• Can I use low-fat cheese?
  Yes, you can use low-fat or part-skim cheeses to reduce the fat content.
• Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
  Definitely! Homemade marinara sauce can add a fresh and flavorful touch to the dish.
• Can I make this ahead of time?
  You can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.
• Can I add other toppings?
  Feel free to customize the toppings with additional ingredients like breadcrumbs, fresh herbs, or diced tomatoes.

Helpful tips:

• Try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Layer some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Use a combination of different cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
• Drizzle some olive oil over the top before baking for a crispy finish.
• Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking to set before serving.
• Experiment with different types of sausage for unique flavor variations.
• Add some chopped fresh tomatoes for a burst of freshness.
• Try incorporating some cooked and crumbled bacon for added richness.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more herbs or spices.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the ziti pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when baking.
• Brown the Italian sausage well for a deep flavor base in the dish.
• Mix the cheeses thoroughly to ensure even distribution and creamy texture.
• Cover the baking dish with foil for the first half of baking to prevent excessive browning of the cheese.
• Use quality marinara sauce for a rich and savory taste in the dish.
• Sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top for a crispy crust before serving.
• Experiment with different types of sausage for a variety of flavor profiles.
• Let the baked ziti rest for a few minutes before cutting into portions for easier serving.
• Garnish with fresh basil just before serving for a vibrant finish.
• Adjust the amount of garlic powder to your preference for a more pronounced garlic flavor.