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Hearty Baked Ziti with Sausage for Comfort Food Lovers

Rich layers of pasta, zesty sausage, and gooey cheese create a comforting Baked Ziti with Sausage, ideal for family gatherings and cozy weeknight dinners.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ziti pasta
  • 1 lb Italian sausage
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, crumble and cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
  4. Add marinara sauce to the skillet with the sausage. Stir to combine and let it heat through for about 5 minutes.
  5. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, oregano, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well blended.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and the ricotta mixture until well combined.
  7. Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan.
  8. Add the remaining pasta mixture, top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
  9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  10. Let the baked ziti rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.