Baked Ziti with Sausage and Mozzarella

Baked Ziti with Sausage and Mozzarella

Baked Ziti with Sausage and Mozzarella

Craving a comforting and delicious pasta dish? Look no further than this Baked Ziti with Sausage and Mozzarella recipe! Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 pound Italian sausage
  • 1 jar marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
  2. Cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
  4. Add the marinara sauce to the skillet with the sausage and stir to combine.
  5. In the prepared baking dish, layer the ziti, sausage and marinara mixture, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
  6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Garnish with chopped basil before serving.

Popular Questions:

  • Can I use a different type of pasta?

    • Yes, you can substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni for a similar result.

  • Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

    • Yes, turkey sausage can be used as a leaner alternative to Italian sausage.

  • Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

    • Yes, you can omit the sausage or substitute it with plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version of this dish.

  • Can I freeze leftovers?

    • Yes, this dish can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Helpful Tips:

  • Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
  • Top with breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy texture.
  • Try using a blend of different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique twist.

Expert Secrets:

  • Cook the pasta until just al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
  • Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor in the dish.
  • Let the baked ziti rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

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