Baked Ziti

Ingredients

Ziti Sauce

• 1 lb Italian sausage (I like to use the hot, but mild or sweet works as well)
• 1/2 medium onion, diced
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced (depending on taste)
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon italian seasoning
• crushed red pepper flakes
• salt and pepper

Pasta and Cheese

• 3/4 lb penne rigate
• 1 lb mozzarella cheese (I buy Frigo or similar brand in a ball shape, easier to work with)
• 3/4 cup parmesan cheese (Save half to top the pasta)
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes (if you like it hot!)
• butter, for the dish

Directions

1. 1

   To make the Sauce:.

2. 2

   In a large pot, brown Italian Sausage over medium high heat until cooked through. About 5 minute.

3. 3

   Reduce heat to medium, add onion and garlic. Cook unitl opaque. About 3-4 minute.

4. 4

   Combine tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt/pepper with onion, garlic, meat mixture and bring to a boil.

5. 5

   Reduce heat to a simmer and cook covered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. 6

   Baked Ziti:.

7. 7

   Cook pasta according to package, generally about 9-11 minutes for al dente.

8. 8

   Halve the mozarella. Cut half the portion into cubes, and the other half into thin slices (should look like discs, which will go on top of the pasta).

9. 9

   Combine drained pasta with sauce, cubed mozarella, 1/2 the parmesan cheese, and a pinch of red pepper.

10. 10

    Place the combined pasta/sauce/cheese into a buttered 9x13 pan (I like to use my Le Crueset, presents better at the table).

11. 11

    Top with remaining mozarella slices and parmesan cheese.

12. 12

    Bake in a 400 degree oven for 45 minutes until the pasta is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.