Ziti With Pepperoni
Creamy ziti with pepperoni and olives features rich tomato flavors, savory pepperoni, and herbs, making it a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large frying pan, slowly fry the sliced pepperoni.
- Add enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan and add chopped garlic.
- When the pepperoni starts to cook, add the beef broth.
- Stir, then add the tomato paste.
- Simmer the mixture, then add half and half to give the sauce a pinkish color (use about half the pint).
- Add parsley, oregano, and rosemary for flavor.
- Add the sliced black olives and stir.
- Let the sauce simmer.
- Meanwhile, cook the ziti or macaroni until al dente.
- Place the cooked pasta in a large platter measuring approximately 18 x 12 x 1.5 inches.
- Pour the sauce over the pasta and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the pepperoni. If you don't have half and half, a combination of whole milk and heavy cream can work as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, replace pepperoni with sautéed mushrooms or a medley of bell peppers. This dish can also be adapted with different pasta shapes if ziti isn't available.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this ziti with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like a classic Caesar salad. For an extra touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving, and consider garnishing with additional fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals, covered, until heated through. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to maintain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ziti With Pepperoni contains roughly 245 calories, with 10g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (51% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 14g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ziti is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes such as penne or rigatoni. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose. The key is to cook it al dente so that it holds its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of ziti with pepperoni, simply omit the pepperoni and replace it with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can still use the same broth and seasonings to create a flavorful sauce that everyone will enjoy.
Can I freeze ziti with pepperoni for later use?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow the cooked ziti and sauce to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake in the oven until heated through, or reheat on the stovetop.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).