patching...
Welcome back, Patch Blogger!

RECIPE: How to Make Baked Ziti with Pepperoni

A great meal that makes lots of leftovers or serves a large group.

Sometimes, all I want is a simple dinner that will make lots of leftovers for lunch the next couple of days (or feed a bunch of people). Baked ziti is the perfect answer to that dilemma, and is delicious at the same time. I love the added pepperoni on top; it adds a whole new dimension of flavor.

Ingredients

  • ½ lb. ziti or other tube pasta
  • 1 lb. ground beef, cooked through
  • Pasta sauce
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Pepperoni
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat over to 350.
  2. Cook pasta according to package directions, drain.
  3. Combine pasta, beef and sauce in 8”x8”x2” casserole dish. Mix to combine all ingredients.
  4. Season to taste.
  5. Top with cheese. (I usually use about half a bag to coat the entire top of the dish.)
  6. Layer with pepperoni.
  7. Bake in oven for 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melty and pepperoni a slightly crisp.

(I sprinkled some grated Parmesan cheese on top before putting it in the oven.)

About this column: If you need new ideas for your next breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert, check out Recipe Swap. Contributors to this column include the editor, freelancers and you, the reader. To submit your homemade recipe, e-mail it along with a photo and story about why you like this recipe to jeremie.smith@patch.com. Related Topics: Baked Ziti with Pepperoni, How to make Baked Ziti with Pepperoni, Recipes, and recipe swap

Leave a comment