If you are craving a comforting, cheesy baked pasta dish that brings both hearty flavors and a delightful texture, this Bowtie Pasta Ziti Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines perfectly cooked bowtie pasta with savory Italian sausage, a rich marinara sauce, and a blend of creamy cheeses that melt into pure magic. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, this baked pasta casserole is not only simple to put together but also boasts layers of taste that will make it your new favorite go-to recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this dish plays a key role, creating a beautiful balance of flavors, textures, and colors. The components are straightforward yet essential, ensuring every bite is scrumptious and satisfying.
- 12 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle): These charming shaped noodles catch the sauce beautifully and offer a fun pasta texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a silky base for sautéing and boosts flavor.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed): Brings a rich, savory depth and a bit of spice to the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch when cooked down.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth.
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce: Provides a tangy, herby tomato base that ties everything together.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Lends a sweet, slightly peppery herbaceous note.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds that classic Italian flavor punch.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a mild kick that wakes up the palate.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese: Brings creamy richness and smooth texture contrast.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided): Melts beautifully to create that gooey, irresistible cheesy topping.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nuttiness and sharpness, balancing the milder ricotta.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to brighten and enhance all flavors.
- Fresh basil (for garnish): A fresh, vibrant touch that adds great color and aroma.
How to Make Bowtie Pasta Ziti Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Getting the oven ready early means the final bake will go smoothly and your cheesy creation will come out perfectly golden and bubbling.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil the bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside. This step ensures the pasta holds its shape without becoming mushy during baking.
Step 3: Brown the Sausage and Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and add the Italian sausage. Break it up with a spatula as it browns to develop rich flavors. Next, stir in the diced onion and cook until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for one more minute to release its fragrant oils.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the marinara sauce, then season with dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes if using, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about five minutes to deepen the flavors and meld the seasonings.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheeses
Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the cooked bowtie pasta along with the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and all of the grated Parmesan. Mix everything well so the cheeses start to warm and bind the pasta and sauce together into a luscious mixture.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella evenly across the top for a golden, bubbly crust. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Once done, let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
How to Serve Bowtie Pasta Ziti Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped basil on top not only adds an inviting green pop of color but also a fragrant herbaceous note that complements the tomato sauce beautifully. You might also sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan for that final salty touch.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread also make perfect companions, adding texture and rounding out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Bowtie Pasta Ziti Recipe family-style right from the baking dish for a cozy vibe, or plate individual portions garnished with basil and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an elegant touch. You can also offer bowls of extra red pepper flakes, Parmesan, and fresh herbs at the table for guests to customize their servings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Bowtie Pasta Ziti Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld, making each next-day bite even better. Be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for longer, this pasta bake freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for optimal results.
Reheating
To reheat, place a portion in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to keep it moist, warming for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, microwave it covered on medium power, stirring halfway to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this Bowtie Pasta Ziti Recipe?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta adds a lovely texture, you can substitute penne, rigatoni, or even traditional ziti. Just be sure to cook according to package directions and adjust baking time as needed.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the Italian sausage and replace it with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also use plant-based sausage alternatives for a meat-free version that still delivers on flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely! Assemble the pasta bake in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s chilled before going into the oven.
What can I do if I want a spicier Bowtie Pasta Ziti Recipe?
Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also use a spicy Italian sausage to bring more heat to the dish.
How can I make this Bowtie Pasta Ziti Recipe gluten-free?
Swap the regular bowtie pasta for a gluten-free variety. Just be sure to check the cooking times and adjust accordingly as gluten-free pasta can cook faster or slower depending on the brand.
Final Thoughts
This Bowtie Pasta Ziti Recipe is truly a comforting classic that combines ease of preparation with irresistible flavors. It’s the kind of dish that invites smiles around the table and warms the heart with every forkful. I encourage you to try this recipe soon — it might just become the new star of your dinner rotation!
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Bowtie Pasta Ziti Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This delicious Bowtie Pasta Ziti is a comforting baked pasta dish combining tender farfalle with savory Italian sausage, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses. Perfectly baked until bubbly and golden, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick during baking.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the bowtie pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.
- Brown the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the sausage and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Sauce and Seasonings: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet and season with dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the cooked bowtie pasta, ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and all of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything well until evenly combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the baked pasta to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef or turkey for the Italian sausage if preferred.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add sautéed zucchini or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
- Feel free to use homemade marinara sauce instead of store-bought for a fresher taste.
- Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to avoid a mushy texture after baking.
