Save This gooey One-Skillet Baked Ziti has saved so many weeknights at my house when we crave comfort but do not want a sink full of dishes. Everything bakes together in one pan so you get bubbling cheese and hearty pasta in under an hour with almost no cleanup.
The first time I made this I was doubtful the noodles would cook properly but they turned out perfectly tender So now it is my go-to when life gets busy yet we still want something soul-warming
Ingredients
- Ziti pasta: Tubular shape holds sauce and cheese beautifully Choose bronze cut pasta for better texture
- Ground Italian sausage: Adds savory spice and depth to the sauce Use fresh from the butcher for best flavor
- Crushed tomatoes: This forms the robust base of the sauce Choose San Marzano tomatoes if possible for sweetness
- Onion and garlic: Build the aromatic backbone of the dish Go for firm onions and fresh garlic cloves
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts for that signature bubbly top Whole milk mozzarella gives best stretch
- Ricotta cheese: Creamy dollops between layers Use fresh ricotta for the richest taste
- Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty sharpness Buy a wedge and grate fresh for real flavor punch
- Olive oil: For sautéing and richness Choose extra virgin for better taste
- Fresh basil or parsley: Adds bright finish Select vibrant leaves with no wilting
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning Adjust to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage:
- Heat olive oil in a large oven safe skillet on medium high Add Italian sausage breaking it up with a spoon until browned and crumbly This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes Transfer to a paper towel lined plate and set aside
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Lower heat to medium Cook diced onions in the remaining fat until very soft about 6 minutes Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant about 1 minute
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Pour in crushed tomatoes with their juices Add salt and freshly cracked pepper Scrape up any browned bits from the skillet’s bottom for added flavor Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes so the flavors deepen
- Combine Pasta and Sausage:
- Pour two and a half cups of water and uncooked ziti pasta into the sauce Return sausage to skillet Stir everything together making sure the pasta is submerged Level the top for even cooking
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil then cover Reduce heat to a simmer and cook about 15 minutes stirring occasionally The pasta should be almost tender and most liquid absorbed
- Add Cheese Layers:
- Dot ricotta cheese over the surface and gently swirl it into the sauce Scatter shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan evenly across the top
- Bake to Finish:
- Move the skillet uncovered to a preheated oven at 425 degrees Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the cheese is deeply golden and bubbling Finish with fresh basil or parsley before serving
Save My favorite part is that golden cheesy crust on top It reminds me of Sunday suppers at my grandmother’s house and the laughter while wrestling for the cheesiest slice
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days For reheating add a drizzle of water or sauce and bake covered until hot This ziti is even better the next day because the flavors meld overnight
Ingredient Substitutions
Use penne or rigatoni if you cannot find ziti Swap sausage for ground beef or turkey for a lighter version For a vegetarian option add sautéed mushrooms and spinach in place of meat
Serving Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread or any crusty loaf and a crisp green salad Kids love it plain but grownups might top with extra chili flakes or roasted vegetables
Cultural or Historical Context
Baked ziti is rooted in Southern Italian home cooking but became a staple at Italian American celebrations here in the States It brings big flavors to the table without complicated steps or fancy cookware
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer stir in sautéed zucchini or eggplant before baking Winter calls for a handful of chopped kale wilted into the sauce Try diced roasted red peppers for sweetness
Save A couple helpful notes The pasta keeps absorbing sauce as it sits so add extra when reheating If your skillet is small divide into two pans to avoid spillover Always let the ziti rest five minutes before slicing for easier serving
Kitchen Questions
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne or rigatoni work well. Adjust cooking time for different shapes.
- → Is it necessary to cook the pasta beforehand?
No, dried pasta cooks directly in the skillet with the sauce for easy preparation.
- → What cheese combinations work best?
Classic options include mozzarella and parmesan; try provolone or fontina for variety.
- → Can I add meat or vegetables?
Absolutely. Brown sausage or ground beef first, or toss in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Stir occasionally and keep enough sauce and liquid in the skillet to avoid sticking.
- → Is it possible to make ahead and reheat?
Yes. Assemble in advance and reheat in the oven or stovetop, adding a splash of sauce as needed.