The aroma of baked ziti with ground beef wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm embrace. Picture this: gooey cheese bubbling on top, hearty meat sauce simmering below, and pasta that’s just the right amount of al dente. It’s a dish that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly evening, making you want to dive in headfirst with a fork.
Every bite transports you back to family gatherings where laughter echoed off the walls, and plates were piled high. Baked ziti isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia served in a cheesy casserole dish. Whether you’re hosting friends for a game night or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe promises to be the star of the show—one that brings people together over shared love and flavor.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This baked ziti with ground beef is incredibly easy to prepare, ensuring you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying
- The rich flavors mingle beautifully, creating an unforgettable taste experience
- Its vibrant layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce make for an eye-catching centerpiece on any table
- Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it can be customized effortlessly based on your preferences
The first time I made baked ziti with ground beef, my family nearly fought over the last piece—it disappeared faster than I could snap a picture.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ziti Pasta: Choose medium-sized ziti for perfect pasta-to-sauce ratio; it holds onto flavors well.
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Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for flavor without excessive grease; it perfectly complements the sauce.
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Marinara Sauce: Opt for your favorite jarred sauce or homemade; either will elevate the dish immensely.
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Ricotta Cheese: The creamy texture adds richness; don’t skimp on this layer for ultimate satisfaction.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Go for fresh mozzarella if possible; it melts beautifully and becomes wonderfully stretchy.
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Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds a savory kick—grate freshly for the best flavor results.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are ideal; they bring aromatic depth that enhances every bite.
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Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs brings warmth and complexity to the entire dish.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning each layer to perfection—don’t forget to taste as you go!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven : Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your dish bakes evenly and comes out bubbly.
Cook the Pasta : In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the meat sauce.
Sauté Aromatics and Meat : Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Toss in ground beef and cook until browned—this should take about 7-10 minutes.
Add Marinara Sauce : Pour marinara sauce over the browned beef in the skillet. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes so all those flavors meld together beautifully.
Create Your Cheese Mixture : In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with some salt, pepper, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese until combined. This creamy mixture adds such delightful richness!
Layer Up! : In a large baking dish, start layering: half of your cooked ziti goes down first, followed by half of your meat sauce mixture. Then dollop half of your ricotta blend over that before sprinkling mozzarella on top. Repeat these layers until everything is used up!
Now cover with aluminum foil (to prevent burning) but remove it during the last 10 minutes to let that gooey cheese get golden brown and bubbly!
After about 30-35 minutes in the oven, pull out this masterpiece—let it cool slightly before serving so no one burns their tongue diving into cheesy goodness.
Enjoy this delightful baked ziti with ground beef alongside garlic bread or a simple salad—and watch as smiles spread all around!
You Must Know
- Baked ziti with ground beef is a crowd-pleaser, combining cheesy goodness with hearty flavors
- This dish can be made ahead for effortless entertaining
- The aroma of bubbling cheese will have everyone racing to the table, eager for that first forkful
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef with onions and garlic while boiling the pasta. Combine ingredients in a baking dish, top with sauce and cheese, then bake until golden.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken. Toss in vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor variations.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a microwave or oven until heated through for best taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To avoid mushy pasta, undercook it slightly before baking
- Layer cheeses for a gooey texture
- Always let baked ziti rest before serving to enhance flavors and prevent burns
Sometimes I whip up this baked ziti on a rainy Sunday afternoon, and my friends joke that they can smell it from miles away.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese in baked ziti with ground beef?
Absolutely! Mix mozzarella with ricotta or parmesan for varied flavors and textures.
How can I make baked ziti healthier?
Use whole grain pasta, lean ground beef, and add veggies like zucchini or bell peppers.
Can I freeze baked ziti with ground beef?
Yes! Just assemble it without baking, then wrap tightly and freeze before cooking.
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Baked ziti with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of al dente pasta, savory ground beef, and gooey cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, delivering a nostalgic taste that warms the soul. With easy preparation and customizable options, it’s an effortless meal that will become a favorite in your kitchen. Dive into this cheesy delight that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and brown for about 7-10 minutes.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti, half of the meat sauce, half of the ricotta mixture, and sprinkle with mozzarella. Repeat layers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes; remove foil during the last 10 minutes for a golden top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
