Easy Baked Ziti

Easy Baked Ziti is a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a hearty family dinner. This recipe layers tender ziti pasta with savory Italian sausage, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of creamy and melty cheeses, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dry ziti pasta – A hearty pasta that holds up well in baking and soaks up the delicious sauce.
• 1 onion, diced finely – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 1 pound Italian sausage – Choose sweet or spicy sausage depending on your preference.
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasonings – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to enhance the Italian flavors.
• 2 (26-ounce) jars marinara sauce (I like Rao’s) – A rich, flavorful sauce forms the base of the dish.
• 6 ounces Provolone cheese, sliced (9 rounds) – Provides a mild, creamy layer of cheese that melts beautifully.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds a tangy richness and creaminess to the dish.
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded (2 cups) – Melts to perfection, creating a gooey, cheesy topping.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty finish.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook it until al dente, which should take about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Cooking the pasta al dente is important because it will continue to cook while baking, ensuring it doesn’t become too soft.
2. Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and Italian sausage, and cook until the sausage is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce and add the Italian seasonings. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Assemble the Ziti: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Begin layering the dish: start with half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the meat sauce mixture. Then, layer all of the Provolone cheese slices over the sauce. Spread the sour cream over the cheese layer evenly. Add the remaining ziti, top with the remaining sauce mixture, and finish with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Bake the Ziti: Before placing the dish in the oven, spray a sheet of aluminum foil with cooking spray to prevent it from sticking to the cheese. Cover the baking dish with the foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starts to brown slightly. This final step gives the ziti a beautiful, golden crust.
5. Serve: Once baked, let the ziti sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set. Top with fresh basil if desired for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, comforting goodness.

Tips:

• Customize the Meat: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use ground beef instead of Italian sausage. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach.
• Make It Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
• Freezing Instructions: Baked ziti freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Assemble the dish and freeze it before baking. When you’re ready to eat, bake it directly from frozen, adding about 20-30 minutes to the cooking time.

This Easy Baked Ziti is a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With layers of tender pasta, savory sausage, rich sauce, and plenty of cheese, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy.