Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage

20 minutes Prep Time
45 minutes Cook Time
12 Servings

Baked Ziti is a simplified version of lasagna. This classic Italian American dish takes comfort food to a whole new level! A casserole made with pasta, sausage, tomatoes and all kinds of yummy cheese. This makes enough that you could assemble in two baking dishes and freeze one for a later day.

Ingredients

  • 1 (16 ounce) box ziti pasta, cooked just until tender and drained
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 pound ground Italian sausage
  • 1 pound ground beef

  • 1 (28 ounce) can Tuttorosso® Crushed Tomatoes with basil 28 oz

  • 2 (14.5 ounce) cans Tuttorosso® Diced Tomatoes Basil, Garlic & Oregano 14.5 oz

  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, use less if you do not like spicy
  • 1 (15 ounce) carton ricotta cheese
  • 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • Sea salt and ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh minced parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step one

Preheat oven to 375º degrees F.

Step two

Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.  Add onions and garlic, cook until softened, about 5-8 minutes

Step three

Add sausage and ground beef, cook until browned.  Drain off excess fat.

Step four

Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, basil, Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, stir to combine.  Reduce heat to simmer and cook for 25 to 30 minutes.  After the cook time remove 3-4 cups of the sauce to a bowl to cool.

Step five

In a separate bowl combine ricotta cheese, 1 1/2 cups mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, salt and black pepper.  Stir together but do not mix completely.  Add the pasta and toss slightly to combine and coat the pasta. Add cooled meat sauce and toss to combine.

Step six

Add half of the coated pasta to a 9×13 inch baking dish.  Spoon half of the remaining sauce over the pasta.  Top with half of the remaining mozzarella cheese.  Repeat with another layer of coated pasta, sauce and cheese.

Step seven

Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly.  Remove from the oven and cool for 5 minutes before serving.  Sprinkle parsley over the top before serving.

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