Description
This Baked Ziti with Sausage and Béchamel sauce is a hearty, oven-baked pasta dish layered with rich tomato flavor, spicy or sweet Italian sausage, gooey mozzarella, and a luxurious white sauce. Fresh basil adds brightness, and a blend of Parmigiano-Reggiano finishes it with a savory punch. The béchamel brings unexpected creaminess, making it a perfect twist on a beloved Italian classic — ideal for cozy dinners or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
2 (28 oz) cans whole peeled tomatoes
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 lbs sweet or spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
2 tbsp minced garlic
2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 lbs ziti or rigatoni
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 tbsp unbleached all-purpose flour
5 cups whole milk
¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
⅔ cup + 3 cups grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (divided), plus extra for topping
2 cups packed fresh basil, chopped (plus extra whole leaves for garnish)
2 lbs fresh mozzarella, cut into chunks and divided
Instructions
Make the tomato sauce: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook sausage until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Add tomatoes and tomato sauce. Simmer for 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook the pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the béchamel: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened (about 5–7 minutes). Add nutmeg and ⅔ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Combine: Toss pasta with tomato-sausage sauce, béchamel, and chopped basil. Stir in half the mozzarella and 1½ cups Parmigiano.
Assemble and bake: Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and 1½ cups Parmigiano. Bake at 375°F for 30–35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Garnish with fresh basil and extra cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 620
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 32g