The moment you set eyes on a bubbling tray of baked ziti with ground beef, you can practically hear the angels singing. The cheesy, golden crust crackles lovingly as you dig in, revealing layers of tender pasta interspersed with rich, meaty sauce. It’s the kind of dish that warms your belly and soul simultaneously, making you feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket fresh out of the dryer.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. Their faces lit up like Christmas tree lights, and my cousin even declared it “life-changing.” This hearty meal has become our go-to comfort food for family gatherings, lazy Sundays, or whenever we need a little pick-me-up. Trust me; once you taste this ziti masterpiece, you’ll be counting down the days until your next serving.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Baked ziti with ground beef is simple to prepare while delivering rich flavors and satisfying textures
- Its vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes
- This dish is versatile enough to adapt to various dietary preferences and occasions
- Perfect for potlucks or cozy family dinners, it’s sure to impress
I still chuckle when I think about how my niece tried to sneak an extra serving while everyone was distracted. She thought nobody noticed until she turned around with a guilty cheese-covered grin.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ziti Pasta: Opt for large ziti pasta that holds onto the sauce beautifully, giving each bite maximum flavor.
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor or richness.
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Marinara Sauce: Jarred or homemade works; just ensure it’s packed with flavor—look for one with no added sugars.
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Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta adds decadence; consider using whole milk ricotta for extra creaminess.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Use a generous amount to achieve that glorious melt factor on top.
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Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan elevates the dish with its nutty flavor.
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Fresh Basil (optional): Chopped basil not only adds freshness but also lends an aromatic touch to the finished product.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a large baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and add salt generously. Cook ziti until al dente according to package instructions—about 8-10 minutes should do it.
Step 3: Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté ground beef until browned and crumbly, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary; we want flavor, not grease!
Step 4: Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and seasoned beef. Stir until everything is well coated and happy.
Step 5: Assemble in Layers: Transfer half of your pasta mixture into your greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and add the rest of your pasta mixture on top.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown : Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Enjoy every flavorful bite of this baked ziti with ground beef! This recipe brings joy not just from eating but from sharing moments around the dinner table filled with laughter and love.
You Must Know
- Baked ziti with ground beef is a classic comfort food that combines cheesy goodness with hearty meat
- Perfect for family gatherings, it’s a one-pot dish that delivers flavor and satisfaction, making it the go-to choice for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef while boiling the pasta. This method maximizes flavor and minimizes cooking time, ensuring all ingredients meld perfectly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms to boost nutrition and flavor without compromising on taste.
Storing & Reheating
To store, keep baked ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cheese for a melty finish; pre-grate it to ensure even melting
- Don’t skip the simmering step—this layers flavors beautifully!
- Always taste as you go; adjust seasoning based on your preference for salt and spice
Sharing my first baked ziti experience brings back memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and second helpings—everyone loved it, leading to my newfound reputation as a home cook!
FAQ
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and bake when ready.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken works well, or try lentils for a vegetarian option.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Undercook the pasta slightly before baking to maintain texture during cooking.
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and joy to any gathering. With layers of ziti pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of creamy cheeses, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful masterpiece. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s sure to become a staple in your home. Dive into this cheesy goodness and savor every bite!
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 24 oz marinara sauce (preferably no added sugar)
- 15 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk recommended)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook ziti in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat for about 7-8 minutes; drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half the mozzarella, and seasoned beef; mix well.
- Layer half of the mixture in the greased baking dish, top with remaining mozzarella, then add the rest of the pasta mixture.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
