Baked Ziti With Ricotta And Sausage
Creamy baked ziti with ricotta, sausage, and a flavorful cheese blend creates a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter and add the flour. Stir and blend with a wire whisk and cook over medium heat for about 2 minutes.
- Slowly add the scalded chicken stock and wine, whisking continuously. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 15 minutes. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta with half of the Asiago cheese, beaten egg, and 1 tablespoon parsley; add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and set aside.
- In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil and sauté the sausage over medium-high heat for a few minutes or until done; set aside.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the ricotta mixture. If you want a lighter dish, replace the sausage with grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables. You can also swap the white wine for vegetable or chicken broth if you prefer no alcohol. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the flavor, making it a delightful addition to Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked ziti hot, garnished with additional grated cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine complements the flavors, making it perfect for a cozy dinner. Consider serving alongside Sweet Garlic With Chicken Pasta for a delightful dinner party spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to keep the pasta moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Ziti With Ricotta And Sausage contains roughly 1004 calories, with 40g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (163% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (125% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 755mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the baked ziti a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats thoroughly.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you don't have ricotta on hand, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or mascarpone for a different texture. You could also blend cream cheese with a bit of milk to achieve a similar consistency.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and add your choice of vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. You can also use plant-based sausage for a meat-like flavor without the meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).