Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage & Spinach

Comfort food lovers, rejoice! This Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage & Spinach is everything you want in a cozy pasta bake—rich, cheesy, and packed with savory flavors. The tender ziti pasta bakes to perfection in a hearty marinara sauce, layered with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, plus a delightful hit of fresh spinach and flavorful Italian sausage. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this baked ziti will quickly become a family favorite.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage & Spinach strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and nutritious, making it a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. The Italian sausage adds a savory, meaty depth without overpowering the dish, while the spinach brings in freshness and a subtle earthiness. It’s a one-dish meal that’s easy to prepare ahead of time and easily customizable. Plus, with gooey melted cheese and robust marinara sauce, it satisfies those cravings for classic Italian-American comfort food with a wholesome twist. If you love dishes like Instant Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip that sneak in greens while delivering bold flavor, this baked ziti is sure to delight.

Gather These Ingredients

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (choose turkey or chicken-based for a lighter option)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Recommended Tools

• Large pot – for boiling the pasta
• Large skillet – to cook the sausage and sauté garlic and spinach
• 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect for layering and baking the ziti
• Mixing bowls – to combine the cheeses and pasta mixture
• Colander – to drain the pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring ingredients

Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage & Spinach, Made Easy

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the ziti pasta.

Step 2: Cook the Ziti

Add the ziti to the boiling water and cook until al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Be careful not to overcook since it will continue baking later. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove excess fat if necessary.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Spinach

To the skillet with sausage, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Mix the Cheese and Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir in the sausage and spinach mixture until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Assemble the Bake

Spray or lightly oil your baking dish. Pour half of the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, then finish with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden top.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Allow the baked ziti to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to cut into portions.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

• Italian Sausage: Swap with ground beef, ground chicken, or plant-based sausage for different dietary preferences.
• Spinach: Use kale or Swiss chard for a different leafy green experience.
• Marinara Sauce: Try your favorite tomato-based pasta sauce or make your own with fresh tomatoes and herbs.
• Ricotta Cheese: Substitute with cottage cheese or a soft vegan cheese alternative.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Use part-skim or whole milk mozzarella depending on your preference for richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be great alternatives for a sharper flavor.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

• Overcooked Pasta: Make sure to boil the ziti just until al dente. Overcooked pasta will turn mushy once baked.
• Dry Sauce: Use enough marinara sauce to keep the pasta moist. If your sauce seems thick, add a splash of water or broth.
• Cheese Overload: While cheese is key, too much can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the recipe’s amounts for balanced flavor.
• Uneven Cooking: Cover the dish with foil during the initial baking stage to ensure the pasta heats through evenly without drying out.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage & Spinach freezes beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. To freeze, assemble the baked ziti but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed, adding extra time if still partially frozen. You can also freeze leftovers in portion-sized containers for quick reheating.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use fresh pasta instead of dried ziti?

Yes, fresh pasta can be used, but reduce the boiling time significantly since fresh pasta cooks faster. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t become mushy during baking.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and increase the amount of spinach or add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You could also use a plant-based sausage alternative.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to keep moisture in. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to prevent drying.

Can I add other vegetables to this baked ziti?

Definitely! Roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini work wonderfully. Incorporate them when mixing the sausage and spinach for even distribution.

Weekend Projects

• Instant Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip – A creamy, crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for parties or cozy nights in.
• Harvest Apple Sausage Stuffing Cups – These savory bites combine sausage and apples for a unique twist on traditional stuffing.

Let’s Eat

Gather your family or friends, plate up generous portions of this Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage & Spinach, and enjoy the comforting medley of flavors. The combination of melted cheeses, savory sausage, fresh spinach, and rich marinara makes every bite a delight. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. This dish not only fills the belly but warms the heart, making it a true winner in any kitchen.

No matter the occasion, this baked ziti is a delicious way to bring people together over good food and good company.

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