Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Sausage and Pepper Ziti is a simple and delicious dish that brings together the wonderful flavors of sausage, bell peppers, and marinara sauce. This comforting pasta bake is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family and friends with minimal effort. With just four key ingredients, this recipe is easy to make and uses common pantry items.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic choice because it is quick to prepare and offers a hearty meal with minimal ingredients. The combination of savory sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and rich marinara sauce creates a dish that is full of flavor and will satisfy everyone at your table. Plus, it’s baked in one dish, which means less cleanup for you—a win-win!
How to Make Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Sausage and Pepper Ziti
Making this delightful dish is straightforward. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious meal that will impress anyone who gets to taste it.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces dried ziti pasta
- 1 pound sweet Italian sausage links, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 medium bell peppers (any color), cored and sliced into thin strips
- 24 ounces jarred marinara sauce (about 3 cups)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish, optional)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil if desired.
- Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook the sausage until browned. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until they are tender-crisp.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine the drained ziti with the sausage and pepper mixture.
- Transfer everything to the baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Sausage and Pepper Ziti
Serve your ziti hot from the oven, garnished with fresh herbs or grated cheese if you like. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that your family will love.
How to Store Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Sausage and Pepper Ziti
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Sausage and Pepper Ziti
- For more flavor, consider adding diced onions or minced garlic when cooking the sausage.
- You can use different types of sausage or add more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms to customize the dish.
- Ensure the pasta is cooked just under al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking.
Variation
Feel free to substitute the sweet Italian sausage with spicy sausage for a kick or use ground sausage instead of links for easier mixing. You can also try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Sausage and Pepper Ziti?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Cover it tightly with foil and it should last for about 2-3 months. Bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra time if needed.
2. How do I know when the ziti is done baking?
The dish is ready when the sauce is bubbly and the edges show slight browning. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
3. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
Absolutely! Using homemade marinara sauce can enhance the flavor even more, making it a great choice if you have some on hand.
This Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Sausage and Pepper Ziti recipe is sure to become a favorite in your house. Enjoy the simplicity and the delicious taste!
Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Sausage and Pepper Ziti
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil if desired.
- Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook the sausage until browned. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until they are tender-crisp.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine the drained ziti with the sausage and pepper mixture.
- Transfer everything to the baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
