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Cheesy Baked Ziti: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe!

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Cheesy Baked Ziti with Sausage & Mozzarella is the ultimate comfort food, featuring a rich blend of pasta, sausage, and gooey cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ziti or penne pasta
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Boil ziti until just al dente – perfect pasta texture for that creamy, cheesy bake win. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook sausage until browned and crumbly. Add garlic and Italian seasoning for that bold, savory flavor boost.
  3. Stir in marinara sauce and a splash of cream. Let it simmer for a few minutes – total comfort food upgrade with creamy, rich vibes.
  4. In a large baking dish, layer half the cooked pasta, spoon over sausage sauce, dollop with ricotta, sprinkle mozzarella, and repeat – this cheesy pasta bake is next-level goodness.
  5. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden – the best weeknight dinner idea ever!

Notes

  • Feel free to use a mix of cheeses for added flavor.
  • Can substitute sausage with ground beef or turkey for a different taste.
  • For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage and add more vegetables.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.homeydishes.com/cheesy-baked-ziti-recipe-comfort-food-dinner/