Name: Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 1 lb lean ground beef; 3 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup chopped fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried); 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Print Recipe

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, it’s a warm, cheesy dish that hugs you from the inside. Enter baked ziti with ground beef—a delightful combination of pasta, savory meat, and gooey cheese that makes your taste buds dance. creamy pasta dish Picture this: a bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven, the aroma wafting through your kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist sneaking a bite before serving. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy beef wraps recipe.

I remember the first time I made baked ziti with ground beef for my family. It was a chilly evening, and I thought it would be the perfect dish to warm us up. The moment I pulled that cheesy masterpiece from the oven, my kids’ eyes lit up like Christmas morning. perfect side bread It has since become our go-to meal for family gatherings and cozy nights in—trust me; you’ll want to make this dish often.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This baked ziti with ground beef is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying
The layers of flavor will leave everyone asking for seconds
Its visual appeal makes it a standout on any dinner table
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!

I once brought this baked ziti with ground beef to a potluck, and let me tell you—the empty dish was my best compliment! Everyone loved it, and I may have even had to hide leftovers just so I could enjoy them myself later.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ziti Pasta: Look for medium-sized ziti pasta; it holds sauce well and creates those perfect cheesy bites.
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a hearty texture without too much grease; it brings rich flavor to the dish.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce; it’s the star player in this recipe.
Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta; its creaminess adds depth and richness.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is great if you want extra gooeyness; just don’t skimp on the cheese!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nutty flavor that enhances every bite; sprinkle generously on top before baking.
Fresh Basil: Chopped basil adds brightness and freshness; consider using dried if fresh isn’t available.
Onion and Garlic: Sautéed onion and minced garlic provide aromatic flavors that elevate your sauce.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together; 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

Cook the Ziti Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions—about 8-10 minutes should do. Drain well but don’t rinse; we want that starch to help our sauce stick!

Sauté Onions and Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil, then toss in chopped onions. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant—around 3-4 minutes. Next, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Add Marinara Sauce: Once your beef is golden brown, stir in your marinara sauce along with salt and pepper. Let this simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes while the flavors meld together beautifully.

Create the Cheesy Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of your shredded mozzarella and some chopped basil. This creamy mixture will provide amazing layers in your baked ziti.

Layer It Up: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, start layering: first pasta, then meat sauce, followed by dollops of ricotta mixture—repeat until everything is used up! Finish with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Bake Until Golden: Cover your baking dish with foil (to prevent burning) and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil after 20 minutes to let that cheese bubble up nicely! Bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

And there you have it—a tray of baked ziti with ground beef ready to steal the show at dinner! Enjoy every mouthful as flavors meld together perfectly in this comforting classic.

You Must Know

Baked ziti with ground beef is a comforting classic that fills your home with the aroma of melting cheese and savory sauce
This dish is perfect for gatherings, offering a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare
The best part?
It tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic make-ahead option

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results when preparing baked ziti with ground beef, start by browning the beef in a skillet while boiling the pasta simultaneously. healthy pasta alternative This way, everything gets done around the same time, ensuring hot and cheesy goodness.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your baked ziti! Swap out ground beef for Italian sausage or turkey for a healthier twist. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to sneak in some greens without sacrificing flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, place it in an oven preheated to 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes, ensuring cheese stays gooey.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When making baked ziti with ground beef, always let your pasta cook just shy of al dente
It will continue cooking in the oven and absorb flavors from the sauce too
Also, don’t skimp on cheese; it’s essential for that gooey texture everyone loves!
A sprinkle of fresh basil on top can elevate this dish visually and flavor-wise

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone eagerly awaited that first cheesy bite. I remember my cousin trying to sneak extra portions when he thought no one was looking—classic!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use different types of meat in baked ziti with ground beef?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meats for a vegetarian version. savory sandwich option Each option offers unique flavors while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.

How can I prevent my baked ziti from getting dry?

To keep your baked ziti moist, ensure you use enough sauce and cover it with foil during baking. Remove the foil during the last few minutes to achieve that golden-brown cheesy topping.

Is there a way to make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble baked ziti with ground beef ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.