When you think of comfort food, nothing quite beats the heavenly aroma of baked ziti with ground beef wafting through your kitchen. Picture this: a bubbling dish layered with tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese that seems to hug each ingredient like an old friend. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to curl up on the couch, throw on your favorite movie, and savor every cheesy bite.
This dish isn’t just about taste; it’s steeped in memories. I still remember the first time I took this baked ziti to a potluck. Friends gathered around the table, eyes wide with anticipation as I unveiled my masterpiece. The moment they took their first bites, I felt like a culinary superhero! This baked ziti is perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, promising smiles and satisfied bellies all around.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Baked ziti with ground beef is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
- Its layers of flavor create a comforting dish everyone loves
- The vibrant colors and cheesy goodness make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- This versatile recipe allows for ingredient swaps based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry
I still chuckle at how my friends practically fought over the last spoonful at that potluck.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ziti Pasta: Choose medium or large ziti for optimal cheese coverage; don’t skimp on quality.
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Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best to avoid excess grease; it adds a hearty texture.
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Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce for rich flavor; fresh is always best.
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Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta adds richness and moisture; opt for whole milk ricotta for more flavor.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Go for whole milk mozzarella; it melts beautifully and creates that gooey texture we crave.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty kick; avoid pre-grated versions if possible.
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Fresh Basil or Parsley: For garnish, these herbs add brightness and color to your finished dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking when you pop in your ziti masterpiece later.
Cook the Ziti Pasta: Boil water in a large pot, adding salt generously before tossing in the ziti. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes—don’t forget to stir occasionally!
Sauté the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. You should hear that delightful sizzle as it cooks! Drain any excess fat carefully.
Add Marinara Sauce: Stir in marinara sauce to your browned beef until well combined. Let it simmer for about five minutes to deepen those flavors; trust me, you’ll love this step!
Mix Ricotta and Mozzarella Together: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella. Add some salt and pepper to taste—this mix will create creamy pockets of goodness throughout your ziti!
Assemble Your Baked Ziti: In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti followed by half of the meat sauce mixture. Spread half of the ricotta-mozzarella mixture on top before repeating layers again.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Remove foil and sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top before baking uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Now all that’s left is to let it cool slightly before serving! Enjoy every cheesy bite of your baked ziti with ground beef—you’ve earned it!
You Must Know
- Baking ziti with ground beef is a delightful mix of flavors
- The bubbling cheese and savory aroma fill the kitchen, making it an inviting dish perfect for gatherings
- Don’t forget to let it rest before serving—this will make slicing easier and keep all those delicious layers intact
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef, then cook the pasta while preparing the sauce. Layer everything together and top with cheese for a perfectly baked ziti.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms. Experimenting with different cheeses can also elevate your baked ziti.
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, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a creamier baked ziti, mix ricotta cheese into your sauce
- Keep an eye on baking time to prevent overcooking
- Adding fresh herbs right before serving adds a burst of flavor that brightens up the dish
Cooking baked ziti with ground beef has been a family favorite for years; it’s always met with smiles and seconds at our dinner table.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat in baked ziti with ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage work wonderfully in this recipe.
What if I don’t have ziti pasta?
Penne or rigatoni are great alternatives that hold sauce beautifully.
How long should I bake my baked ziti?
Bake at 375°F for about 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Baked ziti with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food dish, featuring layers of tender pasta, savory marinara sauce, and a melty blend of cheeses. This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, sure to satisfy the entire table. With its rich flavors and inviting aroma, it’s a recipe that brings everyone together, making mealtime memorable.
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef until no longer pink; drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce with the beef and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta with half of the mozzarella; season with salt and pepper.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the ziti, half of the meat sauce, and half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil, add remaining mozzarella, and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
