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1. Sauté the Vegetables: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the bell pepper softens. The aroma of the sautéing vegetables will instantly fill your kitchen with warmth and hint at the delicious meal to come.

One-Pot Italian Sausage Ziti

Discover the comfort of One-Pot Italian Sausage Ziti, a delicious pasta dish that brings back memories of family dinners. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, combining savory Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and gooey cheese—all in one pot. With rich flavors and a satisfying texture, it encourages togetherness and is sure to please everyone at the table. Gather your loved ones and enjoy a warm, hearty meal that’s as delightful to make as it is to share.

Ingredients
  

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

3 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

12 oz ziti pasta

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Salt & pepper to taste

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it is browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

      Combine and Season: Add the crushed tomatoes back into the pot along with the chicken or vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.

        Cook the Ziti: Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the ziti pasta. Stir to combine and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed much of the liquid.

          Finish with Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cooked sausage, Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well and allow the cheese to melt into the hot pasta.

            Serve: Remove the pot from the heat. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, cover the pot again for a few minutes to melt the cheese. Serve hot and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4-6 servings