This classic Italian-American comfort food is always a hit.
Do you like lasagna, but not the fuss?
Make baked ziti instead!
Simply Recipes / Cambrea Bakes
It makes for a perfect midweek or weekend meal, or a hot dish to bring to a potluck.
Make extra and freeze for later.
Simply Recipes / Cambrea Bakes
What Goes Into Baked Ziti?
Simply Recipes / Cambrea Bakes
This version uses bulk Italian sausage, as well as a key fresh herb.
In summer, that would be basil.
In winter, rosemary.
Simply Recipes / Cambrea Bakes
You could also easily use savory, sage, thyme, or parsley.
You want a substantial short pasta shape with places to hold the sauce and meat.
What Is Ziti Pasta?
Cambrea Bakes
Ziti is a hollow pasta in the shape of a smooth tube, sort of like a short straw.
It originated in Campagna, Italy, or perhaps Sicily, Italy.
In some parts of Italy, it’s served at weddings.
Cambrea Bakes
Tossing the Cooked Pasta with Oil: Yes or No Way?
However, it’s totally okay to leave the oil out, if you prefer.
It’s a great recipe either way.
Cambrea Bakes
Just double-check it’s a sauce you like.
If you freeze it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
you’re able to also freeze a baked ziti, and reheat it thawed or frozen.
Cambrea Bakes
Drain the pasta through a colander.
Toss with a little olive oil so the pasta does not stick together while you make the sauce.
While the water is heating in the previous step, start on the sauce.
Cambrea Bakes
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large saute pan on medium-high heat.
When the oil is shimmering hot, add the bulk sausage or ground meat.
Break up any large chunks of sausage as it cooks.
Cambrea Bakes
Don’t stir that often or it will be more difficult for the meat to brown.
If you are using ground beef or pork instead of sausage, sprinkle with a little salt.
When the meat is mostly browned, add the onions and stir well to combine.
Cambrea Bakes
Saute everything until the onions are translucent and beginning to brown, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Add the garlic, rosemary or basil, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes and stir to combine.
Cook 1 minute, then add the tomato sauce and stir well.
Cambrea Bakes
Bring to a simmer.
Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper, if needed.
Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
