Easy Baked Ziti With Sausage

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.

2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

5. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

6. Add the cooked ziti pasta to the skillet with the sausage and sauce, tossing everything together until well combined.

7. Pour half of the ziti and sausage mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

8. Add the remaining ziti and sausage mixture on top of the cheese layer. Finish by topping with the remaining shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

10. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

11. Once done, remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor.