Classic Deep Dish Ziti from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse features baked ziti pasta layered with rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and savory Italian sausage, all topped with a golden, cheesy crust that delivers a hearty and satisfying Italian comfort meal.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Colander
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish (deep dish)
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ziti pasta
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Italian sausage used in this recipe should be fresh and high-quality for the best flavor, but you can substitute with ground beef or turkey if preferred. When selecting marinara sauce, opt for a robust, herb-infused variety to complement the richness of the cheeses. Mozzarella and ricotta cheeses should be well-drained to prevent excess moisture from making the dish soggy. Measuring spices like Italian seasoning carefully ensures a balanced taste without overpowering the other ingredients. Your Classic Deep Dish Ziti from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse copycat menu will offer a rich, authentic Italian comfort meal that closely replicates the restaurant's signature dish.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook ziti pasta until al dente; drain in colander.
- Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat.
- Remove Italian sausage from casings; crumble and cook in skillet until browned.
- Drain excess fat from sausage; set aside.
- In mixing bowl, combine marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Add cooked sausage to the marinara mixture and stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with half the Parmesan cheese.
- Lightly oil baking dish.
- Layer half of cooked ziti pasta in baking dish.
- Spread half of sausage-marinara sauce over ziti.
- Spoon dollops of ricotta-Parm mixture over sauce.
- Sprinkle half of shredded mozzarella over ricotta.
- Repeat layers with remaining pasta, sauce, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella.
- Top with remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil; bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil; bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Substitution
Classic Deep Dish Ziti from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse copycat recipe can be easily adapted if you can't find ziti; penne or rigatoni work well as substitutes. If Italian sausage is unavailable, ground turkey or beef seasoned with Italian herbs provides a similar flavor profile. Using store-bought marinara sauce saves time, but for a fresher taste, homemade sauce with crushed tomatoes and garlic can be used. You can swap mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different cheese texture without losing creaminess. Ensure your baking dish is deep enough to accommodate the layers, or reduce ingredients proportionally to fit your cookware.
Tips
Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking. Drain excess fat from the sausage thoroughly to avoid a greasy sauce. When layering, distribute cheeses evenly to achieve a balanced, creamy texture. Use oven mitts when handling the hot baking dish for safety and allow the dish to rest after baking to let flavors meld.
Nutritions
Classic Deep Dish Ziti from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse provides a rich source of protein from Italian sausage, mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses, essential for muscle repair and growth. The baked pasta delivers complex carbohydrates that fuel your energy throughout the day. Olive oil and Italian seasoning contribute healthy fats and antioxidants, supporting heart health and inflammation reduction. This hearty meal also offers calcium from the cheeses, promoting strong bones and teeth for your overall well-being.
Storage
Store your Classic Deep Dish Ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. For longer storage, freeze the baked dish tightly wrapped with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, allowing it to keep well for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven at 350degF (175degC) until heated through to preserve the cheesy, savory texture.
Variation or Alternatives
To add a smoky depth to your Classic Deep Dish Ziti, consider substituting Italian sausage with smoked sausage or chorizo. You can also incorporate sauteed mushrooms and spinach into the marinara sauce for increased vegetable content and flavor complexity. Use part-skim ricotta and reduced-fat mozzarella to lighten the dish while maintaining creaminess. Baking the ziti in individual ramekins instead of one large dish offers a personalized serving presentation and potentially shorter baking time.
Allergies
Classic Deep Dish Ziti from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse contains common allergens such as dairy (mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese) and wheat (ziti pasta), which may cause reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. The Italian sausage may also contain allergens like soy, preservatives, or spices that can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. Be sure to check ingredient labels carefully and consult with your healthcare provider if you have known food allergies before enjoying this hearty Italian comfort meal.
Why this recipe?
Classic Deep Dish Ziti from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse attracts fans with its rich, layered blend of robust marinara sauce, tender pasta, and melted cheeses baked to perfection. Its hearty texture and authentic Italian flavors provide a satisfying dining experience that stands out among casual dining options. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate this comforting dish at home, saving money while customizing ingredients to suit your preferences. Your kitchen becomes the perfect place to enjoy deep, savory tastes anytime without waiting for a restaurant visit.