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Delightful Baked Ziti with Sausage: A Comforting Italian-Inspired Dish

Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that has warmed hearts and filled bellies for generations. Perfect for family gatherings or a casual dinner with friends, this comforting meal combines the richness of pasta, the heartiness of sausage, and the creaminess of cheese in one delicious bake. If you’re in search of a dish that combines simplicity and indulgence, look no further than this baked ziti recipe with sausage.

A Brief History

Originating in the United States, baked ziti has its roots in traditional Italian pasta bakes. The dish is known for its versatility, allowing cooks to incorporate various ingredients and flavours. It typically features ziti pasta—a tube-shaped pasta that holds sauces and cheese beautifully—layered with a rich tomato sauce, an abundance of cheese, and often meats like sausage or ground beef. The result is a hearty and satisfying meal that boasts a delightful medley of textures and flavours.

Ingredients

To prepare this sumptuous baked ziti with sausage, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the pasta and sauce:

• 400g ziti or penne pasta
• 450g Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato purée
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

For the cheese layer:

• 250g ricotta cheese
• 200g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 100g grated Parmesan cheese
• A handful of fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Method

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the ziti. Cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns. After about 5 minutes, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion has softened. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavours together.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Once the sauce has finished simmering, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing thoroughly until the pasta is evenly coated with sauce.

4. Assemble the Bake:
   In a large baking dish, spoon half of the pasta and sauce mixture. Layer half of the ricotta cheese, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, ricotta, and mozzarella. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.

5. Bake:
   Cover the baking dish with aluminium foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

6. Serve:
   Once the baked ziti is out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of colour and flavour. Serve hot and enjoy the joys of this delightful comfort food!

Conclusion

Baked ziti with sausage is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavours and an invitation to gather around the table. Its delightful layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese create a satisfying dish that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re serving a crowd or treating yourself to a comforting dinner, this recipe is bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a plate of heartwarming baked ziti that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

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