This creamy baked ziti recipe features Italian sausage, a rich tomato sauce, and a blend of cheeses for a comforting and flavorful dish.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Ensure the oven is fully preheated for even cooking.
Cook the ziti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
In a skillet, sauté the Italian sausage until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
Drain excess fat for a lighter dish.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened.
Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the garlic.
Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and half of the parmesan.
Season with a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor.
Spread a layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish.
This prevents the pasta from sticking to the dish.
Layer half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the cheese mixture, and then more sauce. Repeat the layers.
Ensure even layers for consistent flavor in every bite.
Top with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Spread the cheese evenly for a golden crust.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Covering helps retain moisture during baking.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the cheese.
Broil for the last 2 minutes for a crispy top.
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
This allows the layers to set for easier serving.
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