Step 1

Add the ricotta cheese to a large bowl.

Step 2

Add the egg, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the ricotta Cheese.

Step 3

Stir to thoroughly combine all the ingredients.

Step 4

Add half of the shredded mozzarella cheese to the ricotta mixture.

Step 5

Mix to combine. Cover the ricotta mixture with cling wrap and refrigerate until needed.

Step 6

Add one tsp of salt to a large pot of water over high heat and bring it to a boil.

Step 7

Add the ziti to the boiling water and cook per the instructions on the package for al dente. (the pasta will cook a little more during the baking process so it’s important that the pasta isn’t over cooked)

Step 8

When the pasta is at al dente remove from the pot from the stove and carefully drain the pasta.

Step 9

Once drained return the pasta to the pot (off the heat).

Step 10

Add the butter to the pasta and stir to combine. this will help to keep the ziti from sticking together (you can use olive oil if you prefer) and set aside until needed.

Step 11

While the pasta is cooking begin cooking the sausage. Place a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 12

When the pan is hot Add the chopped onion to the pan and season with salt and black pepper. Let the onions cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until they begin to caramelize. Stir as needed so the onions don’t burn.

Step 13

Add the minced garlic to the pan and continue to cook the garlic for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 14

Add the sausage meat to the pan and increase the heat to medium-high.

Step 15

Stir the meat, breaking up all the big pieces and cook until the meat is well browned. Remove the pan from the heat.

Step 16

Add the ziti, ricotta mixture and sausage mixture to a large bowl.

Step 17

Stir until all the ingredients are well blended.

Step 18

Add three cups of tomato sauce to the mixture.

Step 19

Mix well to fully combine.

Step 20

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 21

Add a layer of sauce to coat the bottom of a large baking dish.

Step 22

Pour the ziti mixture into the baking dish.

Step 23

Add the remaining sauce to the top of the baked ziti mixture.

Step 24

Place the baking dish on the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.

Step 25

Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese, then sprinkle the finely chopped Italian parsley on top of the cheese.

Step 26

Place the baked ziti back into the oven and continue to bake until the mixture is hot and bubbly.

Step 27

Let the baked zit rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.