THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Cheesy Baked Pasta with Red Peppers and Tomatoes
This cheesy baked pasta is a comforting dish packed with roasted red peppers and juicy tomatoes, perfect for a cozy night in. It’s simple to make and bursting with rich, flavorful goodness in every bite.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Cheesy Baked Pasta with Red Peppers and Tomatoes
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook it until it’s just tender but still has a bit of bite, about 6 to 7 minutes. While the pasta cooks, heat a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Once it’s nicely browned, drain off any excess grease and transfer the beef to a big baking dish. Drain the pasta and stir it into the beef.
02
Step 2
Next, melt some butter in the same pan and add the chopped onion, bell peppers, celery, garlic, and Thai chiles. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. Scoop the veggie mixture into a blender and add the marinara sauce, milk, cream cheese, Sriracha, sour cream, and tomato paste. Blend until it’s mostly smooth but still has a little texture. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
03
Step 3
Pour the sauce over the beef and pasta in your baking dish. Beat the eggs in the blender, then pour them over the mixture and stir everything well. Mix in one cup of shredded Cheddar cheese, then press the mixture down gently. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
04
Step 4
Bake it in a preheated oven until the casserole is set and bubbly, usually about 20 to 30 minutes. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Why you’ll love it
This dish combines creamy cheese with the sweet flavors of roasted red peppers and juicy tomatoes. It’s comforting and full of vibrant colors, making it both delicious and visually appealing. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner.
How to serve
Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A crusty garlic bread on the side also pairs wonderfully and helps soak up any cheesy sauce left on the plate.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven to keep the cheese melty and the pasta moist. Avoid microwaving directly to prevent dryness.
