Baked Ziti With Fresh Tomatoes Recipe | How to Make It So Delicious?

A classic Italian-American comfort food, this Baked Ziti with Fresh Tomatoes is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe uses fresh, ripe tomatoes to create a vibrant and delicious sauce, which is then layered with perfectly cooked ziti pasta, creamy ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella.

It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s surprisingly easy to make, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

Ingredients Required

A simple list of fresh ingredients is all you need for this amazing dish.

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lbs fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 15 ounces whole-milk ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded

How to cook Baked Ziti with Fresh Tomatoes?

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious baked ziti that everyone will love.

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the sauce

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium-high heat until browned. Drain off any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer the sauce

Stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Prepare the cheese mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and fresh parsley. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the ziti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the meat sauce.

Step 6: Layer the dish

Spread half of the ziti mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the ziti. Sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, ricotta, and mozzarella.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Your Questions Answered

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the baked ziti a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne or rigatoni are great substitutes for ziti.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes, you can freeze it either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Pro-Tips for the Perfect Baked Ziti

• For an extra rich flavor, use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.
• Don’t overcook the pasta initially, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Let the baked ziti rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to slice.