⏱️ Prep Time: 10 minutes • 🍳 Cook Time: 20 minutes

This one-pan ziti-inspired skillet dish combines the comforting flavors of baked ziti without the need for the oven! You’ll have tender pasta, savory sausage, creamy ricotta, and a burst of tomato flavor, all made in one skillet.

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cast iron skillet filled with a baked penne, tossed with sausage and topped with melty cheese

This dish captures the essence of baked ziti but with a quicker and easier approach. Instead of layering pasta and cheese and baking, you cook everything in a single pan for a fuss-free, hearty meal. The combination of Italian sausage, marinara sauce, ziti pasta, and ricotta creates a creamy, comforting dish that’s full of flavor and rich textures. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want the taste of a classic Italian dish, minus the time in the oven.

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Ingredients

🍽️ Servings: 4 • 🔥 Calories/Serving: 450

12 oz ziti pasta (or penne)
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/2 cup fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Steps

Step 1

Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

Brown the sausage: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3

Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the marinara sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 5

Combine the pasta and cheese: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Dollop the ricotta cheese on top and gently stir until combined. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.

Step 6

Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh basil. Serve hot and enjoy!

Make it your own!

Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to make it even heartier.
Cheese variation: Mix in some Parmesan or provolone for extra cheesy goodness.
Meatless version: Replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a vegetarian version.
Spicy kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.