Zesty Italian Ziti

I love, love, love this dish.  It is a family favorite for years.  It’s not too spicy, but you can certainly adjust the spicy level to suit your taste buds.  Now that we have kids, I usually leave out the red pepper flakes.  This is also my go-t0 dish to take as a meal for people when they need a meal.

Beware: it makes a ton!  The good news is that it freezes and reheats well.  One reason that I really like this dish is because it is one of my “pantry meals”.  Meaning I almost always have everything on hand to make this dish….pasta, kielbasa, canned tomatoes, and a few spices.  Serve with a nice green salad for a simple and quick supper.  I love easy meals!

Zesty Italian Ziti

1 lb Kielbasa, cut into ½-inch chunks
1 medium onion, finely diced
1 can diced tomatoes in juice (14.5 oz.)
1/4 cup tomato paste
1/2 tbl chili powder
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbl Worcestershire sauce
16 oz. ziti, cooked according to package
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Cook sausage and onion over medium-high heat in large skillet until meat is no longer pink; drain.  Blend in tomatoes, paste, and seasonings.  Heat through.  Toss with pasta and top with cheese.