• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Krazy Kitchen Mom

menu icon
go to homepage
search icon
Homepage link
  • Home
  • Recipe Index
  • About Me
  • Work With Me
  • Contact
×

Home » Pasta » Cheesy Baked Ziti

Cheesy Baked Ziti

Last Updated on December 18, 2021. Originally Posted on January 6, 2022 By Laura Franco / Leave a Comment

Share
Pin
Email
Tweet
46Shares

This post may contain affiliate links which won’t change your price but will share some commission.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
This family-style casserole is definitely a crowd-pleaser. Extra cheesy and loaded with sausage, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. via @krazykitchenmomThis family-style casserole is definitely a crowd-pleaser. Extra cheesy and loaded with sausage, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. via @krazykitchenmomThis family-style casserole is definitely a crowd-pleaser. Extra cheesy and loaded with sausage, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. via @krazykitchenmomThis family-style casserole is definitely a crowd-pleaser. Extra cheesy and loaded with sausage, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. via @krazykitchenmom

This family-style casserole is definitely a crowd-pleaser. Extra cheesy and loaded with sausage, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese.

overhead shot of a casserole dish filled with baked ziti

Why We Love This Recipe

As far as I’m concerned, pasta and cheese are the two most comforting foods for a cold winter day. And we must recognize those little pieces of crispy pasta on the top and sides! The BEST!

This recipe is a family favorite that also is great for a potluck, having friends over for dinner, or a hearty casserole for game-day. It’s budget-friendly and can be made 1-2 days in advance.

Ingredients

photo showing ingredients for baked ziti

Let’s Make Cheesy Baked Ziti

  1. Preheat oven to 350°.
  2. Boil ziti per the package direction until it’s al dente.
  3. While the ziti is boiling, brown the Italian sausage. Pour off any excess liquid.
  4. Mix ricotta, 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese, egg, and parmesan cheese, and set aside.
  5. In a large bowl combine cooked ziti and cooked sausage.
  6. Top with ricotta mixture and stir until completely incorporated. Careful not to break the ziti noodles.
  7. Add pasta sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes and mix.
  8. Spray a casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
  9. Transfer ziti mixture to the casserole dish, cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  10. Remove foil, top with remaining 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese and bake, uncovered, for 10 more minutes.
  11. Garnish with fresh basil.
  12. Serve with garlic bread and a side salad.
photo collage showing how to make baked ziti

Krazy Kitchen Mom Tips

  • The recipe can be made and assembled 1-2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator covered tightly with aluminum foil.
  • Be sure to cook ziti to al dente because it will continue to cook while it’s baking.
  • Freeze this casserole for 4-6 weeks. Covered tightly.
shot of casserole of baking ziti

More KKM Family Favorite Recipes

  • Crescent Roll Veggie Pizza
  • Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta
  • Maryland Style Crab Cakes
  • Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken
overhead shot of a casserole dish filled with baked ziti

Cheesy Baked Ziti

This family-style casserole is definitely a crowd-pleaser. Extra cheesy and loaded with sausage, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
Print Pin Rate
Course: Main Dish, Pasta
Cuisine: America, American and Itanlian
Keyword: Casserole, family style, pasta dinner
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Author: Laura Franco

Ingredients 

  • 16 oz. box ziti
  • 1 lbs loose Italian sausage
  • 24 oz. jar prepared pasta sauce
  • 8 oz. plus 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/3 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 1-1/4 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°.
  • Boil ziti per the package direction until it's al dente.
  • While the ziti is boiling, brown the Italian sausage.
  • Pour off any excess liquid.
  • Mix ricotta, 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese, egg, and parmesan cheese, and set aside.
  • In a large bowl combine cooked ziti and cooked sausage.
  • Top with ricotta mixture and stir until completely incorporated. Careful not to break the ziti noodles.
  • Add pasta sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes and mix.
  • Spray a casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
  • Transfer ziti mixture to the casserole dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 25 minutes.
  • Remove foil, top with remaining 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese and bake, uncovered, for 10 more minutes.
  • Garnish with fresh basil.
  • Serve with garlic bread and a side salad.

Notes

Krazy Kitchen Mom Tips
  • The recipe can be made and assembled 1-2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator covered tightly with aluminum foil.
  • Be sure to cook ziti to al dente because it will continue to cook while it’s baking.
  • Freeze this casserole for 4-6 weeks. Covered tightly.
Share
Pin
Email
Tweet
46Shares


Leave a Comment
Last Updated: December 18, 2021

Get More Updates!

Sign up to get exclusive updates & tips!

By using this form you agree with this site's privacy policy.

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Primary Sidebar

Recipes combining fresh foods and packaged ingredients for everyday living.

Come on in…the kitchen is always open!

I’m Laura, the Krazy Kitchen Mom. I create recipes using fresh food and packaged ingredients for easy cooking.

Read More →

Come and get it!

Subscribe to get the scoop on all the latest juicy bits.

Fan Favorites

platter of roasted tomatoes on grill toast

Slow Roasted Tomatoes

Sliced strawberries and cucumber on a white plate garnished with mint leaves

Strawberry Cucumber Salad

strawberry shapes to make a fish on top of greek yogurt

8 Yogurt Bowls for Kids

two shrimp on a skewer in a glass with citrus sauce and lemon and oranges slices on the side

Citrus Shrimp with Citrus Remoulade

Popular Categories

  • Chicken & Turkey
  • Desserts and Sweets
  • Drinks and Cocktails
  • Sandwiches and Pizzas

Featured Posts

platter of roasted tomatoes on grill toast

Slow Roasted Tomatoes

Sliced strawberries and cucumber on a white plate garnished with mint leaves

Strawberry Cucumber Salad

strawberry shapes to make a fish on top of greek yogurt

8 Yogurt Bowls for Kids

two shrimp on a skewer in a glass with citrus sauce and lemon and oranges slices on the side

Citrus Shrimp with Citrus Remoulade

Seasonal Recipes

oatmeal lace cookies on a small cookie rack

Lemon Oatmeal Lace Cookies

Woman's hands holding a bowl of bean soup

Tuscan Bean Soup

Jar of chocolate hazelnut mousse with spoon in it

Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse

Slow Cooker French Onion Pot Roast

view more seasonal recipes

Footer

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

You might also like…

Tray of loaded pancakes
Giant Chocolate Chips Cookies
Dish with pink cranberry butter and two croissant
cast iron skilled of baked meatballs and pasta covered in cheese
large platter of stroganoff
Stack of pancakes

Newsletter

subscribe for email updates!

By using this form you agree with this site's privacy policy.

Nothing tastes or smells better than the bright ro Nothing tastes or smells better than the bright robust flavors of slow-roasted tomatoes. They are tart, sweet, tender punch of tomato flavor. It’s simply mouthwatering.⁠
 ➡️ https://www.krazykitchenmom.com/slow-roasted-tomatoes/⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
#slowroastedtomatoes #leftovertomatoes #tomatolover #roastedtomatoes #tomatotoast #crostini ⁠
#myallrecipes #momswhocook  #thekitchen #kitchn #feedfeed  #bhgfood #recipeoftheday #appetizerideas #tomatoeappetizer #appetizertoast  #foodphoto #theeverygirlcooks #foodoftheweek #eatstagram #eatcaptureshare #makeitdelicious #eatgood #easyrecipe #todayfood  @tasteofhome @tastingtable @todayfood @betterhomesandgardens @allrecipes @thefeedfeed ⁠
⁠
This is my new go-to spring and summer salad. It's This is my new go-to spring and summer salad. It's super easy, fresh, and colorful with a drizzle of balsamic honey dressing. ⁠
 ➡️ https://www.krazykitchenmom.com/strawberry-cucumber-salad/⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
#cucumbers #strawberries #cucumbersalad #strawberrycucumbersalad #summeresalad #springsalad #freshsalad #brunchsalad ⁠
#myallrecipes #momswhocook  #thekitchen #kitchn #feedfeed  #bhgfood #recipeoftheday #familydinnersideas  #foodphoto #theeverygirlcooks #foodoftheweek #eatstagram #eatcaptureshare #makeitdelicious #eatgood #easyrecipe #todayfood  @tasteofhome @tastingtable @todayfood @betterhomesandgardens @allrecipes @thefeedfeed ⁠
⁠
The kids will beg for Greek yogurt when you make f The kids will beg for Greek yogurt when you make fun, bright, colorful decorations to sit on top of their yogurt.⁠
 ➡️ https://www.krazykitchenmom.com/8-yogurt-bowls-for-kids/⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
#breakfastforkids #kidbreakfast #greekyogurt #yogurtbowl #kissfood #cookingwithkids #kidfriendly #foodart #fooddecorating #foodstyling @chobani ⁠
#myallrecipes #momswhocook  #thekitchen #kitchn #feedfeed  #bhgfood #recipeoftheday #familyfoodideas #familybreakfastideas #foodphoto #theeverygirlcooks #foodoftheweek #eatstagram #eatcaptureshare #makeitdelicious #eatgood #easyrecipe #todayfood  @tasteofhome @tastingtable @todayfood @betterhomesandgardens @allrecipes @thefeedfeed ⁠
⁠
This dish is easy, bright, and cooks in 15 minutes This dish is easy, bright, and cooks in 15 minutes. It's made with fresh and light ingredients and can be served as an appetizer or a main dish.⁠
 ➡️ https://www.krazykitchenmom.com/citrus-shrimp-with-citrus-remoulade/⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
#shrimpcocktail #roastedshrimp #citrusshrimp #citrussauce #remoulade #shrimpappetizer ⁠
#myallrecipes #momswhocook  #thekitchen #kitchn #feedfeed  #bhgfood #recipeoftheday #familydinnersideas  #foodphoto #theeverygirlcooks #foodoftheweek #eatstagram #eatcaptureshare #makeitdelicious #eatgood #easyrecipe #todayfood  @tasteofhome @tastingtable @todayfood @betterhomesandgardens @allrecipes @thefeedfeed ⁠
⁠
Invite your family and friends to join you for a c Invite your family and friends to join you for a casual evening on the patio with this delightfully cold and refreshing Kentucky Mule Cocktail. ⁠
➡️ https://www.krazykitchenmom.com/kentucky-mule-cocktail/⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
#gingerbeer #makersmark #moscowmule @makersmark @goslingslimitedbda #kentuckyderbydrink⁠
#imbibe #momswhocook  #thekitchen #kitchn #feedfeedcocktails #makeitdelicious #cocktails #signaturecocktails #craftcocktail #homebartender #classiccocktails  #foodandwine #brunchcocktails #imbibegram #brunchtime #cocktailsofinstagram #cocktailstyle #cocktailspecial #cocktailsanddreams #cocktailsforyou #cocktailtime #cocktaillovers #cocktailsinthecity
Nothing beats a classic ham salad. Spread it on br Nothing beats a classic ham salad. Spread it on bread for a sandwich or serve it with crackers as an appetizer or snack. ⁠
➡️ https://www.krazykitchenmom.com/moms-ham-salad/⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
#hamsalad #easyappetizer #hamsaladsandwich #lunchrecipes #lunchideas #ketosnack⁠
#myallrecipes #momswhocook  #thekitchen #kitchn #feedfeed  #bhgfood #recipeoftheday #familydinnersideas  #foodphoto #theeverygirlcooks #foodoftheweek #eatstagram #eatcaptureshare #makeitdelicious #eatgood #easyrecipe #todayfood  @tasteofhome @tastingtable @todayfood @betterhomesandgardens @allrecipes @thefeedfeed ⁠
⁠
A traditional Caprese Salad dressed up for spring A traditional Caprese Salad dressed up for spring and summer by adding ripe juicy strawberries. It’s perfect for any spring or summer gathering.

Ingredients 
* 1 pint fresh strawberries
* 1 pint cherry tomatoes
* 4 oz. mozzarella pearls
* 1/4 cup fresh basil strips
* 1 16 oz container baby spinach 
* 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
* 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
* salt and pepper to taste
* additional whole basil leaves for garnish

Directions 
* Dice the tomatoes and strawberries into bite-sized pieces. 
* Cut the mozzarella pearls in half or in quarters depending upon the size. 
* Slice the basil into thin pieces.
* Place the strawberries, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil into a small bowl. 
* Add balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper, and gently mix. 
* Refrigerate for 30 – 45 minutes. 
* Serve on a bed of baby spinach or lettuce of your choice
#strawberries #strawberrysalad #caprese #capresesalad #summersalad #traderjoes #TJsStrawberryContest @traderjoes #summerdinner #freshsalad

https://www.krazykitchenmom.com/strawberry-caprese-salad/
After Dinner Strawberry Cheeses Board Go European After Dinner Strawberry Cheeses Board
Go European and serve the cheese and fruit course at the end of the meal. It’s light and refreshing and the perfect way to linger with friends. Anyone else craving a bottle of bubble to sip with enjoying this? 🥂🍓

All of the Ingredients came from Trader Joe’s 
* Fresh strawberries 
* Triple Cream Brie
* Prosciutto 
* Lemon Curd
* Naan Crackers

Instructions 
* Use you imagination and design your board
Cheers!🍓🍾 
#strawberry #strawberries #strawberrycharcuterie #charcuterieboard #TJsStrawberryContest #grazingplatter #cheeseandfruitplatter #dessertboard @traderjoes
These Gouda cheese puffs are the easiest snack you These Gouda cheese puffs are the easiest snack you'll ever make. They're nutty, salty, crispy little snack bites that are irresistible. ⁠
➡️ https://www.krazykitchenmom.com/one-ingredient-gouda-cheese-puffs-clone/⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
#cheesepuffs #ketosnacks #goudacheese #nuttycheese #cheesy #cheesyfood #barsnacks #gouda ⁠
#myallrecipes #momswhocook  #thekitchen #kitchn #feedfeed  #bhgfood #recipeoftheday #familydinnersideas  #foodphoto #theeverygirlcooks #foodoftheweek #eatstagram #eatcaptureshare #makeitdelicious #eatgood #easyrecipe #todayfood  @tasteofhome @tastingtable @todayfood @betterhomesandgardens @allrecipes @thefeedfeed
Follow @krazykitchenmom on Instagram
  • Chicken & Turkey
  • Desserts and Sweets
  • Drinks and Cocktails
  • Sandwiches and Pizzas

Copyright © 2022 Krazy Kitchen Mom on the Seasoned Pro Theme

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish.Accept Reject Read More
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Non-necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
SAVE & ACCEPT