Pasta Sauce, pasta, italian food, flatbread pizza, baked ziti

10 Easy Dinners with Gourmet Italian Sauces

One jar. Endless possibilities. Paesana’s Italian sauces make every meal feel homemade — rich in flavor, ready in minutes.

By Paesana

Paesana Sicilian Gravy jar displayed beside cooked pasta with sauce

When dinner needs to be quick, easy, and delicious, there’s one pantry staple that always comes through: pasta sauce. But don’t limit it to spaghetti night — a jar of Paesana sauce can unlock a world of weeknight meals with barely any prep.

Here are 10 creative and comforting dinners that start with a jar — and finish with clean plates.

1. Baked Ziti: A Weeknight Hero

Baked Ziti is the ultimate no-fuss comfort food — warm, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. And the best part? You can assemble it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you're ready.

To make it, cook your favorite ziti or penne until just shy of al dente (it'll keep cooking in the oven). In a large bowl, combine your cooked pasta with a jar of Paesana Tomato Basil Sauce, a generous scoop of ricotta, and a handful of grated parmesan. Pour everything into a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake until bubbly and golden.

You can keep it classic or get creative:

  • Add browned sausage or ground beef for extra heartiness.
  • Stir in sautéed spinach or roasted zucchini for a veggie boost.
  • Swap in Paesana Vodka Sauce or Fra Diavolo for a bolder twist.

Whether it’s a busy Tuesday night or a casual dinner with friends, Baked Ziti always hits the spot.

All you need is one jar of sauce
and a craving for comfort —
Baked Ziti takes care of the rest.

2. Stuffed Bell Peppers

These are easy to prep ahead and make for a hearty, satisfying meal. Mix cooked rice with ground beef or turkey, a generous scoop of Paesana Roasted Garlic Sauce, and a little shredded cheese. Spoon the mixture into halved bell peppers, top with more sauce and cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender and the tops are golden. It’s a full meal in one delicious package.. 

3. Shakshuka (Eggs in Sauce)

This is a quick one-skillet meal that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Pour Paesana Fra Diavolo Sauce into a pan and let it simmer for a few minutes. Crack eggs into the sauce, cover, and cook until the whites are just set but the yolks are still soft. Serve with crusty bread or pita to soak up every last bite.

4. Eggplant Parmesan Skillet

Skip the oven — you can make this cozy Italian classic right on the stovetop. Lightly fry sliced eggplant until golden, then layer with Paesana Marinara Sauce, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs in a skillet. Cover until everything’s melty, then uncover and broil briefly (if you want that golden top). Serve with pasta or crusty bread.

5. Flatbread Pizza

Pizza night doesn’t have to mean delivery. Just spread Paesana New York's Classic Pizza Sauce on thick-cut bread slices, naan, or store-bought flatbread. Add your favorite toppings and shredded mozzarella, then bake or air-fry until everything’s crispy and melty. Great for kids, after-school snacks, or quick dinners that feel like a treat.

6. One-Pot Pasta

If you hate dishes, this one’s for you. Combine dry pasta, water, and a jar of Paesana Vodka Sauce in one large pot. Simmer while stirring occasionally — the pasta cooks in the sauce, releasing starch that gives you a creamy, restaurant-style finish. Add spinach, peas, or grilled chicken for extra flavor.

7. Italian Sloppy Joes

Put an Italian twist on a classic sandwich. Brown ground beef or sweet Italian sausage in a skillet, then stir in Paesana Tomato Basil Sauce or Roasted Garlic Sauce and simmer until thick and flavorful. Spoon the mixture onto toasted rolls and top with a slice of provolone or shredded mozzarella. It’s messy in the best way — and makes a fun, family-friendly dinner.

.

Sloppy meets saucy —and your favorite roll
will never be the same.

 

8. Chicken Parm Sandwiches

Turn a familiar favorite into a savory, saucy upgrade. Brown ground beef or sausage in a skillet, stir in Paesana Sicilian Gravy Sauce, and let it simmer until thick. Spoon onto toasted buns and top with provolone or mozzarella. It’s like a meatball sub without the mess.

9. Zucchini Noodle Bowls

Looking for a lighter option? Sauté spiralized zucchini noodles in olive oil, then toss with warmed Paesana Organic Roasted Garlic Sauce and a sprinkle of parmesan. It’s fresh, fast, and full of flavor — and you won’t miss the carbs.

10. Baked Gnocchi

This one-pan wonder is ultra-comforting. Mix store-bought gnocchi with Paesana Marinara Sauce and mozzarella in a baking dish. Add a dash of cream or a spoonful of ricotta if you like it extra rich. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, then dig in.

One Jar...Endless ideas

rom pasta bakes to skillet meals, a jar of Paesana sauce is more than just a shortcut — it’s the start of something delicious. Our collection of Italian sauces — from bold Fra Diavolo to creamy Vodka, hearty Bolognese to classic Marinara Sauce — brings homemade flavor to your table in minutes.

Keep a few jars on hand, and dinner is always within reach.

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One jar. Endless possibilities.
Every meal feels homemade with Paesana.

 

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