Baked Ziti

The moment I hear the words Baked Ziti, I’m transported to my grandma’s cozy kitchen on a chilly winter evening. The aroma of bubbling cheese and savory sauce fills the air, inviting everyone to gather around the table. It’s a dish that embodies warmth and togetherness, perfect for family gatherings or a casual dinner with friends. Whenever I make Baked Ziti, I’m reminded of those special moments spent laughing and sharing stories over a hearty meal. Each layer of pasta, cheese, and sauce tells a story of love and tradition that’s been passed down through generations.

What Goes Into Baked Ziti

The ingredients for Baked Ziti are simple yet flavorful. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of taste and texture that come together beautifully. The key players include the ziti, which serves as the foundation, and the array of cheeses that create a creamy, rich finish. Together, they harmonize to offer a dish that’s not just filling but also incredibly satisfying.

• 1 pound Italian sausage links: This adds a hearty flavor to the dish, infusing it with savory goodness.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing, it helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1 medium yellow or sweet onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its aromatic qualities.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the dish an authentic Italian flavor.
• 3/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Provides a subtle kick to balance the richness of the cheese.
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The base of the sauce, adding acidity and moisture.
• 2 (14-ounce) cans stewed tomatoes: Contributes sweetness and texture to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
• 1 pound ziti: The pasta that holds everything together, making it filling and hearty.
• 8 ounces mascarpone cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to the dish.
• 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese: Provides a creamy layer that enhances the overall texture.
• 8 ounces sliced Provolone, cut into strips: Melts beautifully, adding another layer of flavor.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella: The gooey, melty cheese that everyone loves.
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: For a sharp, salty finish on top.

How to Cook Baked Ziti

Cooking Baked Ziti is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. The process is straightforward, and I’m here to guide you through each step. From browning the sausage to layering the ingredients, this recipe is easy enough for anyone to enjoy making.

1. Start by cooking the Italian sausage in a lightly greased pan over medium heat. Keep an eye on it as it browns on all sides, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Once browned, remove it to a cutting board and let it cool slightly. You don’t need to cook it through at this point; it will finish cooking in the sauce. When it’s cool enough to handle, slice it into bite-sized pieces.
2. In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your sauce.
3. Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. You should smell the fragrant garlic wafting through your kitchen at this point!
4. Next, it’s time to add the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes, followed by the crushed tomatoes and stewed tomatoes. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir it all together and let it come to a gentle simmer. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
5. Once simmering, add the sliced Italian sausage back into the pan. Allow everything to simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will let the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. While the sauce is simmering, cook the ziti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
7. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for layering.
8. To assemble, ladle about 1/4 of the sauce into the bottom of the prepared dish. Evenly spread half of the ziti over the sauce. Dollop half of the mascarpone cheese and cottage cheese over the pasta. Then, distribute half of the Provolone strips and half of the mozzarella.
9. Pour half of the remaining sauce over the cheese layer, and then add the remaining ziti. Repeat the layering with the remaining mascarpone cheese and cottage cheese, followed by the final sauce layer. Top everything with the rest of the mozzarella, Provolone, and Parmesan cheese. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust when baked.
10. Cover the baking dish with a piece of aluminum foil that has been sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and broil for a few minutes to achieve a lovely golden brown on the cheese.

Tips for Success

Making Baked Ziti can be a delightful experience, but a few tips can elevate it even further. Here are some tried-and-true suggestions to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. It’s even better the next day!
• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked Baked Ziti for up to 3 months. Just cover it well and ensure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.
• Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Don’t skip the cheese: The combination of cheeses enhances the flavor and texture; use a good quality mozzarella for best results.
• Make it spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños.

How to Serve Baked Ziti

Serving Baked Ziti is just as enjoyable as making it! When it’s fresh out of the oven, the aroma will undoubtedly have everyone gathering around the table. Here are some tasty ways to serve this delightful dish:

• Family Style: Serve directly from the baking dish, allowing guests to help themselves. It creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.
• Accompany with Garlic Bread: The perfect side to soak up the delicious sauce and complement the cheesy goodness.
• Make it a Feast: Pair with a simple green salad, dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar, for a refreshing contrast.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, or celebrations like birthdays and holidays.
• Leftover Lunches: Enjoy as leftovers for lunch; simply reheat and savor the flavors again!
• Seasonal Pairings: In winter, serve with a warm, spiced apple cider for a cozy meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Baked Ziti is a special recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any table. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to create memorable moments with loved ones. I encourage you to try making it tonight and experience that delightful blend of flavors and textures yourself. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved dish!

Baked Ziti

The ultimate comfort food, Baked Ziti is filled with cheesy goodness and flavorful Italian sausage. This easy weeknight dinner will satisfy any craving, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings!

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 27 minutes mins

Total Time 57 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Italian sausage links
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow or sweet onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 3/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 2 14-ounce cans stewed tomatoes
• salt and pepper
• 1 pound ziti
• 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 8 ounces sliced Provolone
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Equipment

• Cutting Board
• Saucepan
• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Start by cooking the Italian sausage in a lightly greased pan over medium heat. Keep an eye on it as it browns on all sides, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Once browned, remove it to a cutting board and let it cool slightly. You don’t need to cook it through at this point; it will finish cooking in the sauce. When it’s cool enough to handle, slice it into bite-sized pieces.
2. In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your sauce.
3. Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. You should smell the fragrant garlic wafting through your kitchen at this point!
4. Next, it’s time to add the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes, followed by the crushed tomatoes and stewed tomatoes. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir it all together and let it come to a gentle simmer. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
5. Once simmering, add the sliced Italian sausage back into the pan. Allow everything to simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will let the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. While the sauce is simmering, cook the ziti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
7. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prepare for layering.
8. To assemble, ladle about 1/4 of the sauce into the bottom of the prepared dish. Evenly spread half of the ziti over the sauce. Dollop half of the mascarpone cheese and cottage cheese over the pasta. Then, distribute half of the Provolone strips and half of the mozzarella.
9. Pour half of the remaining sauce over the cheese layer, and then add the remaining ziti. Repeat the layering with the remaining mascarpone cheese and cottage cheese, followed by the final sauce layer. Top everything with the rest of the mozzarella, Provolone, and Parmesan cheese. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust when baked.
10. Cover the baking dish with a piece of aluminum foil that has been sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and broil for a few minutes to achieve a lovely golden brown on the cheese.

Notes

If you don't have mascarpone cheese, you can use an extra cup of cottage cheese or ricotta cheese.

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