Introduction

Baked Ziti with Sausage and Butternut Squash is a hearty, comforting pasta casserole that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, tender roasted butternut squash, and a creamy tomato-cheese sauce. This dish is a perfect blend of savory and subtly sweet, with the squash adding a delicate autumnal note to the classic baked ziti. Topped with gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan, it’s a satisfying meal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or meal prep for the week.

The combination of pasta, sausage, and roasted vegetables makes it a one-dish wonder that is both filling and flavorful. It’s a crowd-pleaser that balances the richness of cheese and sausage with the natural sweetness of roasted squash, creating a comforting and visually appealing casserole.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both hearty and wholesome. The roasted butternut squash adds a layer of natural sweetness and nutrients, while the Italian sausage brings depth and savoriness. The creamy tomato sauce, combined with perfectly baked ziti and cheese, makes it a comforting dish that everyone enjoys.

It’s versatile, easy to assemble, and perfect for feeding a crowd. The flavors meld beautifully after baking, giving the pasta a rich and satisfying taste that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

• Comfort food at its finest: Savory, cheesy, and satisfying.
• Seasonal twist: Butternut squash adds a subtle sweetness and autumnal flavor.
• Family-friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.
• One-dish meal: Combines protein, vegetables, and pasta in a single casserole.
• Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepared in advance and baked when needed.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 55–60 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~480 calories per serving
• Course: Main / Pasta
• Cuisine: Italian / Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Filling:

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Directions

Preparing the Ingredients:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 20 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
3. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cooking the Sausage Mixture:

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
4. Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer 5 minutes.

Assembling the Baked Ziti:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted butternut squash, sausage mixture, and ricotta cheese. Mix gently.
2. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly on top.

Baking:

1. Cover with foil and bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
3. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper for 20 minutes.
3. Cook ziti pasta al dente; drain.
4. Brown Italian sausage in a skillet; add onion and garlic and sauté.
5. Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer 5 minutes.
6. In a bowl, combine pasta, roasted squash, sausage mixture, and ricotta.
7. Transfer to baking dish; top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
8. Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes; remove foil and bake 10–15 minutes more.
9. Let cool slightly, then serve.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as a main course with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for color and added flavor.
• Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep for the week.

Recipe Tips

• Roast squash until lightly caramelized to enhance sweetness and flavor.
• Use mild or spicy sausage depending on your heat preference.
• Avoid overcooking pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Leftover baked ziti can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
• For extra creaminess, stir a little heavy cream into the ricotta before mixing.

Variations

1. Vegetarian: Omit sausage and add roasted mushrooms or zucchini.
2. Cheese Variation: Mix provolone or fontina with mozzarella for a richer flavor.
3. Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
4. Grain-Free: Substitute ziti with gluten-free pasta.
5. Herb Twist: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sausage and squash mixture.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Assemble without cheese topping and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to baking time.
• Reheating: Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large skillet for sausage and sauce
• Saucepan for boiling pasta
• Baking sheet for roasting squash
• Mixing bowls and spoon

FAQ

Q1: Can I use store-bought butternut squash puree?
A: Yes, but adjust moisture in the mixture to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.

Q2: Can this be made ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q3: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes, omit sausage and substitute with roasted vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.

Q4: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A: Yes, use gluten-free ziti; check cooking times on the package.

Q5: Can I prepare this for a freezer meal?
A: Yes, assemble without cheese topping, freeze, then add cheese before baking.

Conclusion

Baked Ziti with Sausage and Butternut Squash is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the savory richness of sausage with the natural sweetness of roasted squash, all baked together in a cheesy pasta casserole. It’s a perfect dish for fall and winter, family dinners, or special occasions. Easy to make, satisfying, and versatile, this baked ziti is a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful, and wholesome pasta dishes.