Irresistible Baked Ziti with Ground Beef Recipe

There’s something magical about a warm, cheesy dish of baked ziti with ground beef that instantly transports you to simpler times. Imagine the bubbling cheese, the rich aroma wafting through your kitchen, and the anticipation building as you prepare to dig in. This comforting meal is not just food; it’s a hug on a plate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy Sunday gathering, this baked ziti brings people together in joyous harmony.

I remember the first time I made this savory masterpiece for my friends. Their faces lit up as they took their first bite, and suddenly I felt like a culinary superstar. The laughter, the compliments, and the empty plates were all signs that I had mastered this dish. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even those “I don’t know what to make” nights when comfort food is a must!

Sharing this dish always brings smiles; my friends still rave about that first dinner party where I introduced them to baked ziti.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ziti Pasta: Look for medium-sized ziti—it holds sauce well and creates that perfect cheesy bite.

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease and better flavor absorption into the pasta.

• Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce or homemade for an authentic taste that ties everything together.

• Ricotta Cheese: This creamy layer is essential; choose full-fat for rich flavor and smooth texture.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Go for part-skim mozzarella for meltiness without overwhelming greasiness.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds depth and enhances the overall cheesiness of the bake.

• Fresh Basil or Parsley: These herbs add freshness; sprinkle them on top before serving for color and flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt once boiling, then cook your ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Meat and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef along with minced garlic. Cook until browned and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes—then drain excess fat if needed.

Add Sauce and Simmer: Pour marinara sauce into the skillet with meat. Stir well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.

Mix Cheeses Together: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and chopped basil. Mix until creamy—this will be your glorious cheesy layer.

Assemble the Dish: In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti followed by half of the meat sauce mixture. Spread half of your ricotta mixture on top—repeat layers until all ingredients are used up!

Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes; remove foil and top with remaining mozzarella. Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly.

And there you have it! Once out of the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving so you won’t burn your mouth (trust me on this one). Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef while boiling the ziti. Combine everything in one pan for easy cleanup and enhanced flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach and mushrooms for extra nutrition. Spice it up with red pepper flakes!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through for best results.

Sharing my first baked ziti experience brings back memories of laughter and compliments from friends, who devoured every last bite and begged for seconds.

FAQ

Can I make baked ziti with ground beef ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day early and refrigerate before baking.

What cheese works best in baked ziti?

A blend of mozzarella and ricotta creates a creamy, delicious result.

How do I freeze leftover baked ziti?

Cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap before freezing to maintain freshness.

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Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a heartwarming dish that combines layers of al dente pasta, savory ground beef, and gooey cheeses baked to perfection. This easy recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings, delivering comfort in every bite. With its rich marinara sauce and creamy cheese blend, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with minced garlic for about 5-7 minutes; drain excess fat.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a bowl, combine ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and chopped basil until smooth.
6. In a baking dish, layer half of the ziti, followed by half of the meat sauce and half of the ricotta mixture; repeat layers.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil, top with remaining mozzarella, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. You can substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.