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Baked Ziti with Sausage

Sophia
A hearty baked pasta with sausage, marinara, and cheesy layers, perfect for cozy dinners.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6
Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Ziti:

  • 12 oz ziti or rigatoni pasta
  • 1 lb Italian sausage mild or spicy, casings removed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 24 oz jar marinara sauce
  • 1 15 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Cheese Layer:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg

For Garnish (Optional):

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • Boil pasta in salted water until al dente; drain.
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; cook sausage for 5-6 minutes until browned. Drain fat.
  • Add onion and garlic; cook for 2-3 minutes.
  • Stir in marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg in a bowl.
  • In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce. Layer half the pasta, half the sauce, and half the cheese mixture; repeat. Top with remaining mozzarella.
  • Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with basil or parsley; serve warm.

Notes

Nutrition (per serving):
  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Protein: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 8g
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g Source: USDA Food Database (2025). Values are approximate.