A hearty baked pasta layered with mozzarella and topped with Italian sausage, green pepper and San Marzano tomatoes. As it bakes, the tomato juices work their way through the layers of pasta and cheese, creating a simple, comforting casserole.
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| Baked Ziti |
Servings: About 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 (28-ounce) can San Marzano tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup water
- 1 box ziti pasta, or another pasta shape of your choice
- 2 packages mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Crumble the Italian sausage into a large skillet. Add the diced green pepper and cook over medium heat until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
- Add the San Marzano tomatoes and their juices. Break or cut the tomatoes into small pieces.
- Add 1 cup water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer while you prepare the pasta.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well.
- Spread half of the cooked ziti in a large baking dish.
- Cover with a layer of mozzarella cheese.
- Add the remaining ziti and top with another layer of mozzarella.
- Pour the sausage, pepper and tomato mixture evenly over the pasta and cheese.
- Gently shake the baking dish to help the tomato juices work their way through the pasta to the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 425°F for 35–40 minutes, until bubbling and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Let stand for about 10 minutes before serving.
Tip: Cook the ziti just to al dente—or even a minute shy—because it will continue cooking while the casserole bakes.
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