Easy Make-Ahead Casserole: Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage | Southern Living

ricotta cheese

🥗Healthier: cottage cheese

💰Cheaper: cream cheese

Cottage cheese offers a lower-fat option while maintaining creaminess.

Italian sausage

🥗Healthier: turkey sausage

💰Cheaper: pork sausage

Turkey sausage reduces fat content while still providing flavor.

mozzarella cheese

🥗Healthier: part-skim mozzarella

💰Cheaper: provolone cheese

Part-skim mozzarella reduces calories while maintaining texture.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grana padano

Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free alternative with a cheesy flavor.

Start by making your own Italian seasoning with peppercorns, oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper; pulse in a mini chopper until well combined.

In a skillet, add Italian sausage removed from casings and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until no longer pink in the center.

Add a little oil to the skillet and heat it up, then add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Add the homemade Italian seasoning to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute to bring out the flavors.

Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and a little water; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 40 to 45 minutes.

Once the sauce is thickened, add a little salt and honey to enhance the flavors.

Stir in the ziti pasta and some mozzarella cheese until well combined.

Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and top with more mozzarella cheese.

Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens