Go Back
–+ servings
easy baked ziti recipe

Classic Baked Ziti with Spicy Italian Sausage

The Crispy Chef
Discover the ultimate comfort food with this hearty baked ziti recipe. Featuring spicy Italian sausage, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano cheeses, this dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and make-ahead meals. Enjoy layers of flavorful goodness in every bite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 10
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large pasta pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Sharp chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Food processor (optional)
  • Kitchen scale (optional)
  • Instant-read thermometer (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 16 ounces ziti pasta
  • 1 pound spicy Italian sausage
  • 2 jars 14 ounces each tomato basil sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh basil or oregano optional, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cook Pasta: Boil ziti in salted water until just shy of al dente (about 2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
  • Prepare Sauce: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat.
  • Sauté Garlic & Spices: Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the sausage. Cook until fragrant.
  • Simmer Sauce: Pour in the tomato basil sauce, mix well, and let simmer for 25-30 minutes. Stir in reserved pasta water for better consistency.
  • Layering: In a 9x13 inch baking dish:
  • Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom.
  • Add a layer of cooked ziti.
  • Spread ricotta cheese evenly.
  • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
  • Repeat layers, ending with a final cheese topping.
  • Bake: Place in the oven uncovered for 20 minutes.
  • Rest & Serve: Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

For a creamier texture, mix ricotta with an egg before layering.
To prevent mushy pasta, slightly undercook before baking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 200gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 22gFat: 18gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6g
Keyword Baked ziti, cheesy pasta, easy baked ziti, Italian comfort food, pasta bake, Sausage Pasta
Tried this recipe?Mention @Thecrispycheff or tag #Thecrispychef!