When the aroma of bubbling cheese mingling with savory ground halal beef wafts through your kitchen, you know it’s time for a culinary fiesta. Baked ziti with ground halal beef is not just dinner; it’s an invitation to a cheesy embrace that warms your heart and fills your belly. Imagine layers of pasta smothered in rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella—this dish is a hug from the inside.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; it was a chilly night, and I wanted to create something comforting. As soon as they took their first bite, their eyes lit up like Christmas morning. If you’re looking for the perfect meal for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this baked ziti fits the bill and promises a delightful flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This baked ziti with ground halal beef combines simplicity with flavor; you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up
- The gooey cheese layered over tender pasta creates an eye-catching feast on your dinner table
- Perfectly spiced ground beef adds depth while being versatile enough for leftovers or meal prep
- Ideal for gathering friends or family around the table!
I still chuckle remembering my nephew’s reaction when he found out there was a whole pan waiting for him!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ziti Pasta: Opt for medium-sized ziti; it holds the sauce beautifully and gives that essential baked texture.
- Ground Halal Beef: Choose lean beef to keep it healthy yet flavorful; 80/20 is my go-to for balance.
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought brand or homemade; a good sauce makes all the difference.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better and gives that gooey effect we all crave.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a nutty finish that elevates every bite.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil and oregano brings warmth and depth to the dish.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is key; it infuses perfumed flavors that enhance the overall dish.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness before you get cooking.
- Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget these staples; they amplify all other flavors in your dish.
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 even baking once you assemble everything together.
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the ziti until al dente—usually about 8-10 minutes—then drain well and set aside.
Sauté the Beef Mix: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Then introduce ground halal beef, browning it until no longer pink while seasoning generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Add Marinara Sauce: Pour in your marinara sauce into the skillet with browned meat. Stir gently to combine everything beautifully before letting it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes.
Toss Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta with half of the meat sauce mixture. Layer half into a greased baking dish followed by half of the mozzarella cheese.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Spoon remaining meat sauce over top along with more mozzarella cheese. Bake uncovered in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Get ready to dig in! Your taste buds are about to embark on an unforgettable journey thanks to this scrumptious baked ziti with ground halal beef recipe!
You Must Know
- Baked Ziti with Ground Halal Beef creates a comforting dish that fills the home with mouthwatering aromas
- This recipe is easy to make and perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty leftovers throughout the week
- It’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground halal beef in a skillet, then cook the pasta while preparing the cheese sauce. This sequence ensures everything comes together perfectly without overcooking any components.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap mozzarella for provolone or add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Experimenting with flavors can create a signature baked ziti that matches your taste preferences.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for a delicious meal anytime.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve a creamy texture, incorporate ricotta cheese and mix it thoroughly
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente before baking
- For extra flavor, add Italian seasoning to your ground beef while cooking
Sharing this recipe brings me back to family dinners when everyone would gather around the table, eagerly waiting for their first bite of cheesy goodness.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat in my baked ziti?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives to ground halal beef.
How do I prevent my baked ziti from drying out?
Cover it with foil during baking and remove it during the last few minutes for a golden top.
Can I freeze baked ziti for later use?
Yes, baked ziti freezes well! Just make sure it’s fully cooled before freezing it.
Baked Ziti with Ground Halal Beef
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Baked Ziti with Ground Halal Beef is a comforting, cheesy dish that brings family and friends together. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb ground halal beef
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add ground halal beef, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned.
- Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti with half of the meat sauce. Layer half in a greased baking dish followed by half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Spoon remaining meat sauce on top, add more mozzarella, then bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added creaminess, mix in ricotta cheese before baking. Substitute mozzarella with provolone or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.