Baked Sausage Ziti with Tomato and Ricotta is a comforting Italian-inspired casserole dish that’s packed with flavor, texture, and warmth. It’s everything you love about a hearty pasta meal — tender ziti noodles, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and flavorful sausage — all baked together into bubbling perfection.

Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting guests, or craving something cozy for dinner, this dish delivers comfort in every bite. It’s easy to prepare, makes great leftovers, and is guaranteed to satisfy any pasta lover.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines all my favorite comfort food elements in one dish — creamy cheese, zesty tomato sauce, and perfectly browned sausage. It’s one of those meals that makes your home smell amazing as it bakes, and the first bite always brings that “wow” moment.

The ricotta gives it a light creaminess, while the sausage adds bold, savory flavor. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser — even picky eaters can’t resist it. It’s also ideal for meal prepping or freezing for busy nights!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Baked Sausage Ziti is a must-try because it’s comforting, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. You don’t need fancy ingredients — just classic pantry staples like pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese. The combination of creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and tangy marinara makes every bite heavenly.

The sausage adds depth and a bit of spice, elevating it from an ordinary pasta bake to a restaurant-worthy meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approx. 480 kcal per serving
Cuisine: Italian-American
Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) ziti pasta
1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
2 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Simple Cooking Directions

Cook pasta until al dente and drain.
Brown sausage with onion and garlic; stir in marinara sauce and seasonings.
Combine ricotta and half the mozzarella and Parmesan in a bowl.
Layer pasta, sauce, and cheese mixture in a baking dish.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the ziti in salted water until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sausage Mixture

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Mix the Cheeses

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, ½ cup mozzarella, and ¼ cup Parmesan. Add a pinch of salt and pepper and stir until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Ziti

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half the cooked ziti, then layer half the sausage sauce, followed by dollops of ricotta mixture. Repeat with remaining pasta, sauce, and cheese. Sprinkle the top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

Serve Baked Sausage Ziti with Tomato and Ricotta hot, straight from the oven. Pair it with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a restaurant-style finish. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot for an authentic Italian experience.

Additional Recipe Tips

Use mild sausage for a family-friendly version or spicy sausage for a bold kick.
Mix in some spinach or sautéed mushrooms for added veggies.
Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue cooking while baking.
Let the dish rest before serving — it helps the layers set for cleaner slices.
Double the recipe and freeze half for later!

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage with sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant.
Creamy Alfredo Twist: Mix half marinara and half Alfredo sauce for a rosé-style ziti.
Three-Cheese Ziti: Add provolone or fontina for extra cheesiness.
Turkey Sausage Ziti: Substitute with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
Pesto Ziti Bake: Add a spoonful of pesto to the sauce for herby flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly with foil or place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes.

Special Equipment Needed

Large pot (for boiling pasta)
Skillet or sauté pan
Mixing bowls
9×13-inch baking dish
Oven

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the ziti up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving.

2. Can I use penne instead of ziti?
Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or any tube-shaped pasta works perfectly.

3. What type of sausage is best?
Italian sausage — mild or spicy — gives the best flavor. You can also use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter dish.

4. Can I skip ricotta?
If you prefer, replace ricotta with cottage cheese or a mix of cream cheese and mozzarella for a similar texture.

5. How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your sausage and sauce are gluten-free certified.

Conclusion

The Baked Sausage Ziti with Tomato and Ricotta is the perfect fusion of hearty comfort and Italian charm. Each layer — from the zesty sausage and tangy tomato sauce to the creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella — creates a mouthwatering, family-style meal that never disappoints. Whether for a weeknight dinner, potluck, or special occasion, this baked ziti guarantees smiles and second helpings. Once you try it, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen for years to come!