Baked Ziti
Dec 13, 2025 12:24 PM
This baked ziti is a MAJOR crowd-pleaser, whether I’m hosting a family gathering or cooking for my kids' friends (I usually double the recipe in that case!). The secret is using Italian sausage, which is a shortcut to incredible flavor, and skipping the ricotta cheese, which tends to have a grainy texture in traditional baked ziti. The recipe is doable on a weeknight yet special enough to serve to company, and it’s also a fantastic make-ahead potluck dish.
If you’re looking to save time, you can opt for pre-shredded mozzarella cheese from a bag; just make sure it’s the whole milk version (the low-fat version isn’t nearly as good). As the baked ziti works its magic in the oven, throw together a big Italian salad and warm some garlic bread, and you’re ready to feast!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti noodles
- 1½ lbs ground spicy or sweet Italian sausage
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-oz) 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
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for serving
- 8 oz whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)
Prep Time:
40 minutes
Cook Time:
50 minutes
Total Time:
90 minutes
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