Baked Ziti With Sausage Meatballs and Spinach

Baked Ziti With Sausage Meatballs and Spinach has become one of my favorite comfort foods. The combination of cheesy pasta, savory sausage meatballs, and fresh spinach creates a dish that warms my heart and fills my belly. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. The aroma wafting through the house drew everyone to the kitchen, and the smiles on their faces as they took their first bites were priceless.

Ingredients for Baked Ziti With Sausage Meatballs and Spinach

Making this dish is simple and requires ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you will need:

For the Sausage Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground sausage (Italian sausage works great)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Baked Ziti:

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

How to Make Baked Ziti With Sausage Meatballs and Spinach

Making the sausage meatballs is the first step. I find it fun to mix the ingredients by hand. Here’s how I do it:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix everything until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Baking the Meatballs

I love baking the meatballs instead of frying them. It’s healthier and less messy. Here’s how to bake them:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes or until they are browned and cooked through. The smell will be amazing!

Cooking the Ziti Pasta

While the meatballs are baking, I cook the ziti pasta. Here’s my method:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Combining Ingredients for Baked Ziti

Now comes the fun part! Combining everything together is where the magic happens. Here’s how I do it:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, chopped spinach, and ricotta cheese.
2. Gently fold in the baked sausage meatballs.
3. Mix until everything is well combined.

Layering the Baked Ziti

Layering is key to a great baked ziti. I like to think of it as building a delicious tower. Here’s how to layer:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large baking dish, spread half of the ziti mixture evenly across the bottom.
3. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top.
4. Add the remaining ziti mixture on top and finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Baking the Ziti

Baking the ziti is where everything comes together. The cheese melts beautifully, and the flavors meld. Here’s what I do:

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serving Baked Ziti With Sausage Meatballs and Spinach

Once the baked ziti is out of the oven, I let it cool for a few minutes. This helps everything set. When serving, I like to garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.

Storing Leftover Baked Ziti

If there are any leftovers (which is rare), I always store them properly. Here’s how I do it:

• Allow the baked ziti to cool completely.
• Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Freezing Baked Ziti

Freezing is another great option if I want to prepare meals in advance. Here’s how I freeze baked ziti:

1. Allow the dish to cool completely.
2. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil.
3. Label the container and freeze for up to 3 months.
4. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.

Tips for Baked Ziti With Sausage Meatballs and Spinach

Over the years, I’ve learned some tips to make the best baked ziti. Here are my favorites:

• Use quality ingredients: Fresh spinach and good marinara sauce make a big difference.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better when baked.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try adding provolone or gouda for a unique flavor twist.

Why You’ll Love Baked Ziti With Sausage Meatballs and Spinach

Baked Ziti With Sausage Meatballs and Spinach is a dish that brings everyone together. It’s comforting, filling, and packed with flavor.

The combination of meatballs, pasta, and cheese is a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week.

Every time I make this dish, it reminds me of the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this baked ziti is sure to please.