This Cheesy Baked Ziti with Sausage is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Cook the ziti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Avoid overcooking the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven.
In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
Break the sausage into small pieces while cooking for even browning.
In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened.
Add a pinch of salt to help the vegetables release their moisture.
Combine the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and marinara sauce in a large bowl. Mix well.
Taste the sauce mixture and adjust seasoning if needed.
Mix the cooked ziti into the sauce mixture until evenly coated.
Ensure the pasta is well coated to prevent it from drying out during baking.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Spread the cheese evenly for a consistent melt.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Covering the dish prevents the cheese from browning too quickly.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
For a crispy top, broil for the last 2 minutes.
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Baked Ziti with Sausage!
Resting allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.
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