Ingredients
1 to 2 cups leftover shredded beef roast [forms the hearty base of the sauce]
1 tablespoon olive oil [used for cooking the onions and garlic]
½ onion, chopped [adds sweetness and depth to the sauce]
3 garlic cloves, minced [enhances the aroma and flavor]
½ cup red wine (optional) [helps deglaze the pot and intensify flavors]
1 large can crushed tomatoes (or whole peeled tomatoes blended) [creates the sauce foundation]
1 small can tomato paste [thickens the sauce for a richer texture]
½ teaspoon kosher salt [seasons the dish perfectly]
6 grinds fresh black pepper [adds a touch of heat and spice]
⅓ cup fresh Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, thyme, or parsley) or 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning [brings in fresh, herbaceous notes]
1 pound ziti or similar short pasta [provides the perfect structure to hold the sauce]
2 cups shredded provolone cheese [melts on top for a bubbly finish]
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese [adds a nutty, savory topping]
Extra fresh herbs for garnish [optional, to brighten up the final dish]
Instructions
1-First, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pot over medium heat and add ½ chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until they soften, about 5 minutes, to release their aromas. Next, stir in 1 to 2 cups of leftover shredded beef roast and cook for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
2-Pour in ½ cup red wine if using, to deglaze the pot and scrape up any bits from the bottom. Add 1 large can of crushed tomatoes, 1 small can of tomato paste, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, 6 grinds fresh black pepper, and ⅓ cup fresh Italian herbs or 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a rich, savory mix.
3-While the sauce simmers, cook 1 pound of ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and combine it with the prepared sauce in a large bowl. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, top with 2 cups shredded provolone cheese and ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, then broil for about 3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4-Finally, garnish with extra fresh herbs and serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. For dietary tweaks, like using gluten-free pasta, swap it in during the boiling step to keep things easy.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🧀 Use a mix of provolone and Parmesan for a perfect melty and flavorful cheese topping.
🍷 Red wine is optional but adds depth; substitute with beef broth if preferred.
🍝 Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid overcooking during baking, keeping the dish’s texture enjoyable.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Simmering Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Contains Dairy, Not Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup pasta bake
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
