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Baked Spinach and Sausage Ziti is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and a medley of creamy cheeses, all enveloped in tender ziti pasta. This satisfying recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, providing a delicious way to feed a crowd or enjoy a leftovers-friendly meal. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it also promises to be a crowd-pleaser that leaves your loved ones asking for seconds. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this enticing baked pasta dish, sharing insights on each ingredient and offering tips for customization to make it your own.

Baked Spinach and Sausage Ziti

Discover the bliss of Baked Spinach and Sausage Ziti, a comforting dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. This recipe combines rich Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and creamy cheeses with tender ziti pasta, creating a delightful meal that everyone will love. Easy to prepare, this hearty dish promises to leave your loved ones asking for seconds. Follow our step-by-step guide to make this satisfying baked pasta dish and customize it to your taste!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, removed from casings)

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained)

2 cups ricotta cheese

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the sausage: In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

        Combine spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach (or thawed frozen spinach) and cook until wilted or heated through. Season with oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.

          Mix ricotta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well until combined.

            Combine everything: In the bowl with the cooked sausage and spinach, add the cooked ziti and marinara sauce. Stir until well combined.

              Layer the dish: In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the ziti mixture evenly. On top, dollop the ricotta mixture evenly over the ziti. Then, layer the remaining ziti mixture on top.

                Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top layer of ziti evenly.

                  Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                    Garnish and serve: Once done, remove the ziti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 6-8