Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food that wraps you in a warm, cheesy embrace. Picture this: bubbling marinara sauce, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, all coming together in a dish that makes your mouth water just thinking about it. It’s the kind of meal that invites everyone to gather around the table and dig in, creating memories that linger long after the last bite.
As I reminisce about family dinners where Baked Ziti took center stage, I can’t help but chuckle at how my little brother managed to get more cheese on his shirt than on his plate. This dish is perfect for cozy weekends or festive gatherings, promising an explosion of flavor and warmth that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef combines rich flavors and textures into one satisfying dish
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests
- Versatility shines through as you can customize ingredients based on preferences or what’s on hand
- Enjoy it straight from the oven or as delicious leftovers the next day
Each time I serve this dish, my friends can’t help but rave about how delicious it is—especially when they discover there’s always room for one more helping.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ziti Pasta: Use ziti or any tube-shaped pasta for maximum sauce-holding capabilities.
Ground Beef: 80/20 ground beef provides optimal flavor and juiciness while cooking.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred marinara or homemade sauce for authentic Italian taste.
Ricotta Cheese: The creamy ricotta adds richness and balances the hearty meat and sauce.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for whole milk mozzarella for its melty goodness and stretch factor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavor; avoid pre-grated versions if possible.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil brings depth to the overall flavor.
Fresh Basil (optional): Add fresh basil leaves at serving time for a burst of freshness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the kitchen counter. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you get everything ready.
Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add ziti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat as needed to keep it light.
Add Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning into the browned beef. Let it simmer for about five minutes until everything melds beautifully together.
Mix Cheeses Together: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of your mozzarella and some salt. This creamy mixture will add layers of flavor throughout your baked ziti.
Layer It Up!: In a large baking dish, start layering: half of the pasta, half of the meat sauce, followed by dollops of ricotta mixture. Repeat these layers before topping with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake to Perfection: Cover with foil and bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly on top.
Once you pull that cheesy masterpiece out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving—it’s tempting to dive right in but trust me; those flavors need a moment to settle!
Enjoy this Baked Ziti with Ground Beef at any family gathering or cozy night in; it’s bound to become a staple your loved ones will ask for again and again!
You Must Know
- Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a comforting dish that warms hearts and homes
- The rich aroma of melted cheese and savory beef fills the kitchen, making it irresistible to all who enter
- Perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef, then cook your pasta while preparing the sauce simultaneously. This multitasking method ensures efficiency and delicious results, leaving you with more time to relax.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers or spinach. Experimenting with different cheeses can elevate your baked ziti to new cheesy heights!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that cheesy goodness remains intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always taste your sauce before mixing it with pasta; adjusting seasoning makes a world of difference
- Letting the dish rest before serving helps flavors meld beautifully
- Don’t skimp on cheese; extra layers create a delightful gooey texture!
The first time I made this baked ziti, my friends devoured it within minutes. They insisted it was better than their mom’s recipe, and I couldn’t help but beam with pride.
FAQ
Can I make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What other meats can I use in this recipe?
Ground turkey or sausage are great alternatives to ground beef for added flavor.
Can I freeze leftover Baked Ziti with Ground Beef?
Yes! Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to three months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is the quintessential comfort food, featuring layers of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a medley of melted cheeses enveloped in rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this dish promises an explosion of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With its vibrant colors and customizable ingredients, it’s easy to make and even easier to love!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
- In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta with half the mozzarella and salt.
- Layer half of the pasta in a baking dish, followed by half the meat sauce and dollops of ricotta mixture. Repeat layers and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until browned.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: For added flavor, substitute ground beef with turkey or sausage. Feel free to incorporate vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days or freeze for up to three months.
