Indulge in the comforting embrace of Italian cuisine with our mouthwatering Baked Ziti with Eggplant, Sausage, and Olives! This dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italy. With layers of tender ziti pasta, savory Italian sausage, and the delightful richness of eggplant and olives, every bite is a celebration of flavor. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to impress. Ready to uncover the secrets to creating this cheesy, hearty masterpiece? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 eggplant, diced
- 1 cup Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup black olives, sliced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ziti pasta and cook until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, sauté diced eggplant with a pinch of salt over medium heat until golden brown and tender, about 7-8 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
- If not already cooked, brown the Italian sausage in the same skillet, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti, sautéed eggplant, crumbled sausage, sliced black olives, and marinara sauce. Mix gently to combine.
- Transfer half the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture on top and cover with the remaining cheese. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if available.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the ziti just until al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking. This ensures a perfect texture that holds up well in the dish.
- Eggplant Magic: To enhance the flavor of the eggplant, sprinkle it with salt and let it sit for a few minutes before sautéing. This draws out excess moisture and bitterness, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Sausage Choices: Feel free to experiment with different types of Italian sausage—mild, spicy, or even turkey sausage can add a unique twist to your baked ziti.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Don’t skimp on the cheese! For an extra cheesy experience, consider mixing in some ricotta or adding a layer of provolone cheese for added depth of flavor.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the baked ziti to rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and ensuring each slice holds together beautifully.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: This recipe can be prepared in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 554kcal
Carbohydrates: 71g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
