Spicy Sausage Baked Ziti

Ingredients

• Ziti pasta1 pound
• Spicy Italian sausage, casings removed1 pound
• Onion, chopped1 medium
• Garlic, minced3 cloves
• Crushed tomatoes28 ounces
• Heavy cream1/2 cup
• Ricotta cheese15 ounces
• Provolone cheese, shredded1 cup
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded1 cup
• Parmesan cheese, grated1/2 cup
• Red pepper flakes1/2 teaspoon
• Olive oil1 tablespoon
• Saltto taste
• Black pepperto taste

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain.

2. 2

   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add spicy Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat.

3. 3

   Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.

4. 4

   Stir in crushed tomatoes and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.

5. 5

   In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup provolone, and 1/2 cup mozzarella. Mix well.

6. 6

   In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, sausage sauce, and ricotta mixture. Stir gently.

7. 7

   Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with half of the remaining provolone and mozzarella.

8. 8

   Layer the remaining pasta mixture on top. Sprinkle with the remaining provolone, mozzarella, and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.

9. 9

   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

10. 10

    Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.