If you are craving a hearty, comforting meal that comes together with minimal fuss but maximum flavor, then this One-Pot Baked Ziti Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Picture tender pasta swimming in a rich tomato sauce, mingling with savory Italian sausage and creamy cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection in a single pot. It’s a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug and is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day. Plus, using just one pot means less cleanup and more time enjoying your delicious creation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but crucial ingredients come together to create a balanced and flavorful dish. Each component plays a special role—from the spicy kick of Italian sausage to the creamy richness of ricotta and melting mozzarella, every bite bursts with delicious textures and colors.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed): Provides savory depth and a little spice to the sauce.
- 1 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes: Adds an aromatic base that cooks down beautifully with the garlic.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with warmth and flavor.
- 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes: The lovely, rich tomato foundation that coats the pasta.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes: Brings a subtle heat to enliven the sauce.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that gives the dish its classic Italian aroma.
- 2 cups water: Helps cook the pasta right in the sauce without drying it out.
- 12 oz ziti pasta (uncooked): The star who soaks up all those incredible flavors.
- ½ cup ricotta cheese: Adds creamy richness and a luxurious texture.
- â…“ cup heavy cream: Envelops the pasta in velvety smoothness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The melty, golden finish that’s simply irresistible.
How to Make One-Pot Baked Ziti Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a Dutch oven over medium heat and browning the Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. This step develops deep flavor right from the start. Once browned, drain the fat to keep the dish from getting greasy but retain all that meaty goodness in the pot.
Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic
Toss in the dried minced onion flakes and minced garlic. Stir and cook for about 30 to 60 seconds until everything smells fragrant and mouthwatering. This short sauté draws out a rich aroma that sets the tone for the sauce you’re building.
Step 3: Build the Sauce and Cook Pasta
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then season with salt, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine all the flavors perfectly. Add the water and uncooked ziti pasta next. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover your pot, and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This magic step cooks the pasta right in the sauce, ensuring every noodle is tender and flavorful.
Step 4: Add the Creamy Touch and Melt Cheese
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese and heavy cream. Return to very low heat and cook for 5 minutes to let the sauce thicken slightly and become luxuriously creamy. Finally, remove from heat, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly across the top, and pop the pot under the broiler until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. This final flourish gives you that classic baked ziti crust we all crave.
How to Serve One-Pot Baked Ziti Recipe
Garnishes
Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a bright pop of color and fresh herbal notes. A dusting of grated Parmesan cheese can also deepen the cheesy richness and add a nice salty kick that finishes the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes a refreshing contrast to the hearty baked ziti. Garlic bread or crunchy focaccia are perfect for soaking up those extra saucy bites, while roasted vegetables add smoky sweetness and nutritional balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the baked ziti straight from the Dutch oven family-style to keep things warm and cozy. For a fuss-free dinner party, portion into individual oven-safe bowls and broil the cheese topping so each guest gets their own golden masterpiece. You can even add a drizzle of chili oil or balsamic glaze for a gourmet twist that impresses every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Pot Baked Ziti Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making your next meal even tastier.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. After cooking, allow it to cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight before reheating for quick weeknight dinners.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers gently in the microwave or oven until thoroughly heated. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to keep the moisture in, uncover for the last few minutes to let the cheese bubble and crisp back up like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ziti is traditional, penne, rigatoni, or even rigatoni make great substitutes since they hold the sauce well and cook nicely in this one-pot method.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, swap the Italian sausage for your favorite plant-based meat substitute or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.
Can I prepare this dish in advance and bake it later?
You sure can. Simply cook the sauce and pasta as directed, then cool and refrigerate. When ready, add the cheese topping and broil just before serving for that fresh-baked appeal.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese is a fine alternative, though slightly less creamy. For a richer option, mascarpone also works wonderfully.
How spicy is this One-Pot Baked Ziti Recipe?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that enhances the flavor without overwhelming the dish, but feel free to adjust the amount according to your personal heat preference.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a superstar go-to dinner that combines convenience and incredible flavor, you truly can’t go wrong with this One-Pot Baked Ziti Recipe. It’s a comforting crowd-pleaser that delights every time and makes you feel like a kitchen rockstar with almost no effort. Give it a try and watch it become an instant family favorite!
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One-Pot Baked Ziti Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This flavorful One-Pot Baked Ziti recipe features Italian sausage, zesty tomato sauce, and creamy cheese layers all cooked together for a comforting and easy Italian-inspired meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
Liquids and Sauce
- 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups water
Pasta and Cheese
- 12 oz ziti pasta (uncooked)
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- â…“ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: Heat a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until thoroughly browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat from the pot to prevent greasiness.
- Sauté aromatics and build sauce: Add the dried minced onion flakes and minced garlic to the browned sausage. Cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine all flavors.
- Cook the pasta: Pour in the water and add the uncooked ziti pasta. Bring the mixture up to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and allow to simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the sauce.
- Finish with creamy cheese: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese and heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Return the pot to low heat for 5 minutes to warm through and let flavors meld, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Broil with mozzarella: Remove the pot from the heat once again. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the ziti. Place the Dutch oven under a preheated broiler for a few minutes until the mozzarella melts and becomes bubbly and golden brown. Serve hot.
Notes
- Be sure to drain sausage fat after browning to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
- Use a heavy pot like a Dutch oven for even heat distribution during simmering and broiling.
- If you don’t have a broiler-safe pot lid, transfer to a baking dish for the broiling step.
- Adjust red pepper flakes for spiciness preference.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat thoroughly before serving.
