There’s something magical about a bubbling dish of baked ziti with ground beef. Picture this: layers of cheesy goodness intertwining with perfectly cooked pasta, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce that would make even the most stoic Italian grandma weep with joy. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, leading family and friends like a moth to a flame. You can almost hear the delighted gasps as they take their first bite, sinking into that velvety texture and savoring every mouthful.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in pasta form. I remember the first time I made baked ziti with ground beef for my family. It was a chilly Sunday evening, and I wanted to create something comforting after a long week. The moment I pulled it out of the oven, my kids’ eyes lit up, and they dove in faster than you could say “mamma mia!” Trust me when I say this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or any occasion that calls for pure comfort food.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This baked ziti with ground beef is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings
- The flavor profile is rich and satisfying, combining hearty meatiness with creamy cheese
- Its vibrant layers create an eye-catching presentation that’s sure to impress guests
- Versatile enough to adapt with different proteins or veggies, you can easily customize it based on your pantry staples
It was a hit at our family gatherings! Everyone raved about it and asked for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ziti Pasta: Opt for short tubes that hold onto the sauce well; penne is also a great substitute.
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Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for better flavor without excess grease; turkey works too if you want a lighter option.
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Marinara Sauce: A quality store-bought sauce saves time; homemade is great if you have extra time to spare.
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Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess; consider using whole milk ricotta for richer flavor.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Use fresh mozzarella for gooeyness or pre-shredded mozzarella for convenience.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated enhances flavor; avoid the powdered version if possible.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic infuses an aromatic flavor; crushed garlic is quicker if you’re in a hurry.
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Fresh Basil or Oregano: These herbs add freshness; dried versions work but use less since they are more concentrated.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in your dish; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot. Add salt generously before tossing in the ziti pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Sauté the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat and stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
Add the Sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the browned meat, mixing well. Let it simmer gently while you prepare the cheese mixture.
Create Your Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with salt, pepper, and half of your grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Layer It Up: In your baking dish, start layering by spreading some meat sauce on the bottom, followed by half of the cooked pasta. Spoon half of your ricotta mixture next and sprinkle with mozzarella before repeating layers.
Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden brown on top.
With each step leading closer to cheesy perfection, you’ll find yourself anticipating that first slice!
Feel free to invite friends over or plan a family movie night—this baked ziti with ground beef will elevate any gathering into a heartwarming feast!
You Must Know
- Baked ziti with ground beef is a crowd-pleaser, combining cheesy goodness with hearty flavors
- Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it offers comfort food at its finest
- The layers of melted cheese and savory sauce create a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by browning the ground beef, then cook the pasta while preparing the sauce. Layer everything together and bake until bubbly for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best quality.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always taste your sauce before mixing it with pasta; it makes all the difference in flavor
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente, as it will cook more while baking
- Layer cheese generously; it ensures a melty experience every time!
There was that one time I made baked ziti for a family gathering, and my cousin declared it “the best thing he’s ever eaten.” Talk about pressure to replicate perfection!
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat for baked ziti with ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or sausage works wonderfully as alternatives in this dish.
How long does baked ziti need to bake?
Bake your ziti at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes until it’s hot and bubbly.
Can I freeze baked ziti with ground beef?
Yes! Freeze it before baking, then thaw and bake when you’re ready to enjoy.
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Baked ziti with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food that combines cheesy layers of goodness with hearty meat and rich marinara sauce. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings, delighting everyone with its warm aroma and satisfying flavors. With easy preparation steps and customizable ingredients, you can whip up this delicious baked ziti in no time, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh basil or oregano (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Mix marinara sauce with the browned meat; let simmer.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the Parmesan, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Layer a baking dish: spread some meat sauce, add half of the cooked pasta, spoon half of the ricotta mixture, sprinkle mozzarella, then repeat layers.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
