Description
Baked Ziti for Two is a cozy, comforting Italian casserole made with tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, savory sausage, and melty mozzarella—perfectly portioned for a romantic dinner or satisfying solo treat.
Ingredients
-
3 cups (about 450 g) uncooked ziti noodles
-
½ pound (225 g) ground Italian sausage or ground beef
-
2 cups (475 ml) pasta sauce
-
¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
-
1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese or small curd cottage cheese
-
8 oz (225 g) shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups / 200 g)
-
Fresh or dried chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish.
-
Cook ziti in salted water according to package instructions (8–10 minutes). Drain.
-
In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat.
-
Add pasta sauce and Parmesan to the skillet. Stir to combine.
-
Mix the cooked ziti with the sauce and remove from heat.
-
In the baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture. Spread ricotta over it, then add half the mozzarella. Repeat with remaining pasta and mozzarella.
-
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and edges are golden.
-
Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Swap in your favorite cheese blends for a new flavor profile.
Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for variety.
To prepare ahead, assemble the dish and refrigerate before baking.
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian