This is a ridiculously easy dish. It comes together quickly, and can easily be halved (and baked in an 8x8 or 9x9 dish). If you don’t want meat, you can eliminate the sausage and still have a delicious meal. You might want to add a chopped onion if you forgo the sausage. As always, season to taste—most recipes are underseasoned for my taste. And you can use garlic powder if you prefer.

Baked ziti with Italian sausage

Ingredients

• 1 lb ziti pasta (or any tubular pasta)

• 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy), casings removed

• 1-24 oz jar marinara sauce

• 1-14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, drained

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

 Instructions

·       Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

·       Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

·       In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.

·       Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

·       In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti with the sausage and sauce. Stir in the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese.

·       Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

·       Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

·       Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve hot.