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I like to think of this dish as lazy lasagna. It's the perfect Sunday supper that everyone will love! The combination of Italian sausage, fragrant sautéed vegetables, and creamy ricotta layered with ziti noodles creates a comforting and satisfying meal. The bubbling, slightly browned mozzarella and Parmesan on top add the perfect finishing touch. Serve it straight from the oven, topped with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor.
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Heat olive oil in a pan and brown Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Add onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the pan, and sauté until fragrant.
Boil ziti noodles to al dente according to package instructions, then drain.
Mix the seasonings, crushed tomatoes, and heavy whipping cream into the cooked Italian sausage mixture.
Combine the meat mixture with the cooked noodles.
Spoon half of the noodle mixture into the bottom of a casserole dish or 9x13 glass pan.
Add ricotta cheese in spoonfuls over the noodle mixture, then top with the remaining noodle mixture.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top.
Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, then broil for 1-2 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and slightly browned.
Top with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
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Use basil-infused olive oil for extra flavor, or substitute regular olive oil if preferred.
If you like extra spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
For a vegetarian version, omit the Italian sausage and add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini instead.
Make ahead by assembling the dish and refrigerating it; bake when ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni if preferred.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or mascarpone for a similar creamy texture.
How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?
Toss the cooked noodles with a little olive oil to prevent sticking before combining them with the meat mixture.
