If you’re looking for a baked ziti recipe that’s both simple enough for a cozy weeknight and impressive enough for guests or potlucks, you’ve hit the jackpot. This baked ziti recipe by Jennifer Segal is a crowd-pleaser that brings together tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy cheeses, and savory Italian sausage in one glorious dish.
Baked ziti is the kind of meal that warms your soul. It’s cheesy, hearty, and full of flavor perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing friends at a gathering. Best of all, it’s straightforward to make and perfect for prepping ahead. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to make this baked ziti recipe your new go-to comfort meal.
Why This Baked Ziti Recipe is a Winner
There are plenty of baked ziti recipes out there, but what sets this one apart is the perfect balance of spicy Italian sausage, creamy pecorino Romano cheese, and fresh basil. The sauce simmers slowly with crushed tomatoes and just the right hint of red pepper flakes to give it a subtle kick.
The pasta is cooked just al dente, so it holds up beautifully when baked. And the mozzarella cheese on top? Ooey-gooey, golden, and irresistible.
Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this baked ziti recipe is easy to follow and comes out delicious every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound ziti noodles
- 1½ pounds ground Italian sausage (spicy or sweet, your choice)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1½ teaspoons sugar
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup plus 3 tablespoons grated pecorino Romano or Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, divided
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil, plus extra for garnish
- 8 ounces whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Baked Ziti
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add the ziti noodles and cook them until they’re just very al dente about 7 minutes. You want the noodles slightly undercooked since they’ll finish baking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce and Sausage
Heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Crumble the sausage into the pan and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes). Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and drain all but one tablespoon of fat from the pan.
Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about a minute, until fragrant but not browned. Then stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to develop the flavors.
3. Add Cream, Cheese, and Basil
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in ⅓ cup of pecorino Romano cheese, the cooked sausage, and chopped fresh basil. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Pour the sauce into the pot with the pasta and gently toss to coat all the noodles evenly.
5. Assemble Your Baked Ziti
Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with half the shredded mozzarella and half of the remaining pecorino Romano cheese. Layer the rest of the pasta on top, then finish with the remaining mozzarella and pecorino Romano.
6. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Bake the dish uncovered in a preheated 425°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly browned. Sprinkle with extra basil before serving.
Tips for Make-Ahead and Freezing
This baked ziti recipe is super freezer-friendly. You can assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to two days or freeze it for up to three months.
When ready to bake, defrost overnight if frozen. Bake covered with foil at 425°F for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Ziti
Can I substitute the Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Ground beef, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based sausage alternative will work well.
Can I use different pasta?
Yes! Penne or rigatoni are great substitutes for ziti.
How spicy is this dish?
The recipe has a mild heat from the crushed red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount or omit it based on your preference.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Baked ziti is the kind of food that instantly feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s cheesy, meaty, and full of comforting flavors that bring everyone to the table with smiles. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or need a dish to wow at a potluck, this baked ziti recipe is a reliable crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.
So roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy the best baked ziti of your life. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become your new weeknight favorite!
