Dive into the cozy goodness of a Pasta Bake with Sausage (also known as baked ziti) – it’s like a laid-back version of lasagna. Imagine layers of pasta cradling a luxurious tomato meat sauce infused with Italian sausage, all hugged by a generous layer of velvety, melted mozzarella cheese. As it bakes to perfection, you’re in for an easy and satisfying casserole dinner that suits any day of the week. Bonus: Prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the freezer for a future feast.
In our family, pasta bakes are a no-brainer. They’re simple to whip up and can easily satisfy a hungry crowd. Oh, and let’s talk leftovers – they actually level up in flavor the following day. No joke. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and, of course, the grown-ups. Among our cherished creations are the Cheesy Tortellini and Sausage Pasta Bake and the delightful Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Bake.
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Can we talk about the perfect pairing? Picture a hearty slice of this sausage-infused pasta bake, served with a rustic loaf of bread. The options are aplenty, from the aromatic allure of Pull Apart Garlic Bread to the comforting embrace of Cheesy Garlic Dinner Rolls. And don’t forget the classics like Ciabatta Rolls or slices of French Baguettes – they’re always welcome.
So, there you have it – Pasta Bake with Sausage. A comfort dish that takes it easy like lasagna but with its own delightful twist. Layers of pasta, a tomato-sausage hug, and a stretchy mozzarella blanket, all coming together to make a meal that’s both fuss-free and fabulously delicious. Plus, that incredible feeling when you know the taste journey isn’t limited to just one day – it’s comfort that keeps on giving.
Ingredients of Pasta Bake with Sausage:
1) 340 grams (12 ounces) of ziti pasta
2) Italian sausage, your choice of mild or spicy, weighing one pound (450g)
3) Olive oil, 1 tbsp
4) 1 small onion, diced finely
5) 3 minced garlic cloves
6) 1 can of crushed tomatoes (28 ounces/800 grams)
7) 1 tablespoon dried basil
8) Oregano, dry, 1 teaspoon
9) Add salt to taste, 1/2 a teaspoon.
10) Black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon
11) (240 ml) of heavy cream per cup
12) mozzarella cheese, shredded, 1 1/2 cups (170g).
13) 60 grams (1/2 cup) of grated parmesan cheese
14) For garnish, use fresh basil or parsley.
Instructions:
1) Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2) Boil the Pasta:
• Heat a large the pan of water with salt to a boil.
• Cook ziti pasta until al dente according to package specifications.
• Pasta is drained and placed aside.
3) Cook the Sausage:
• In a big pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil.
• The sausage should be taken out of its casing and crumbled onto the skillet.
• Cook the sausage while breaking it up into smaller pieces until it is thoroughly cooked.
• The cooked sausage should be moved to a plate and left alone using a slotted spoon.
4) Prepare the Sauce:
• The chopped onion should be cooked in the same skillet until it is transparent and fragrant.
• Cook for a further 1 to 2 minutes after adding the minced garlic.
• Add the salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed tomatoes.
• Allow the sauce to boil for about 10 minutes so that the flavors can mingle.
• Add the heavy cream, then boil the sauce for an additional five minutes.
5) Combine Pasta and Sauce: When the ziti pasta is finished cooking, add it to the sauce and gently toss to coat the pasta.
6) Layer the Goodness:
• Spread half of the spaghetti mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish that has been buttered.
• Over the noodles, distribute half of the cooked sausage.
• Over the sausage, grate half each of the Parmesan and mozzarella.
7) Repeat and Bake:
• Over the cheese, arrange the leftover pasta mixture.
• Add the remaining cooked sausage on top.
• The remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheeses should be added on top.
8) Bake and Enjoy:
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes with the baking dish covered with aluminum foil.
• Once the foil has been removed, bake the cheese for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until it is bubbling and brown.
9) Final Touch:
• The dish should be taken out of the oven after baking and allowed to cool somewhat.
• Before serving, garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
This delicious and warm pasta bake with sausage, also known as baked ziti, will have your taste buds dancing with delight. For a lunch you won’t soon forget, share it with loved ones.
Pasta Bake with Sausage Recipe Video:
Pasta Bake with Sausage Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
| Serving Size | 1 portion of Pasta Bake with Sausage |
| Calories | Approximately 450 kcal |
| Total Fat | 26g |
| Saturated Fat: 12g Trans Fat: 0g | |
| Cholesterol | 75mg |
| Sodium | 900mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 35mg |
| Dietary Fiber: 3g Sugars: 7g | |
| Protein | 20g |
The percent Daily Values is calculated using a 2,000-calorie diet. Depending on your calorie requirements, your daily values may be greater or lower.
Note: Please keep in mind that nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the brands and quantities of items used.
Pasta Bake with Sausage Health benefits and Storage instructions:
Health Benefits:
Good source of protein for muscle maintenance and repair.
Provides essential nutrients from tomatoes, garlic, and onions.
Moderate fiber content contributes to digestive health.
Calcium-rich from mozzarella and parmesan for bone health.
Storage:
Pop any extras into a sealed container and chill them in the fridge – they’ll stay delicious for the next 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta bake.
Reheat Instructions:
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the pasta bake with foil and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through. For a quick individual serving, you can also use the microwave for 2-3 minutes. Enjoy the reheated goodness!