There’s something magical about a bubbling dish of baked ziti with ground beef, wafting through the air like an aromatic hug. Picture this: gooey cheese melting into perfectly cooked pasta, mingling with savory ground beef and a rich marinara sauce that dances on your taste buds. This dish is not just food; it’s a warm embrace after a long day, a celebration of comfort that brings everyone to the table.
Growing up, baked ziti was our family’s go-to for gatherings and celebrations. The aroma would fill our home, drawing in friends and family like moths to a flame. As I stirred the pot, laughter and stories would bubble over just as eagerly as the sauce. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, this dish promises to create memories along with those delightful flavors.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Baked ziti with ground beef is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The flavor profile balances savory meatiness with tangy tomato sauce and cheesy goodness
- Visually appealing layers invite you to dig in while its versatility means you can swap ingredients based on what you have on hand
- Ideal for feeding a crowd or cozying up with leftovers!
I still remember my friend Sarah’s reaction when I served her baked ziti for the first time; her eyes lit up like Christmas lights.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ziti Pasta: Look for medium-sized tubes that hold sauce well; avoid anything too small that may get lost in the mix.
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease; it keeps the dish hearty without overwhelming flavors.
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Marinara Sauce: A good-quality store-bought sauce works wonders here; homemade is great if you’re feeling adventurous!
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Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess that blends beautifully with other cheeses.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded; it gives that perfect gooey texture.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan for added depth; it brings a nutty flavor to the overall dish.
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Garlic Powder: This adds an instant flavor boost without the chopping hassle; plus, who doesn’t love garlic?
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Dried Italian Herbs: A blend of oregano and basil enhances the overall flavor profile, bringing out those classic Italian tastes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ziti pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Sauté the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Add Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in marinara sauce along with garlic powder and dried herbs into the cooked beef. Let it simmer for 5 minutes while you enjoy that mouthwatering aroma.
Mix Cheeses Together: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of your mozzarella and some parmesan cheese. This cheesy mixture will add creaminess throughout your baked ziti.
Layer It Up!: In a baking dish, start layering: half of your pasta followed by half of the meat sauce mixture, then spoon in all of your cheese mixture. Repeat layers until everything is used up.
Bake It Off!: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top; bake uncovered for another 15 minutes until golden brown.
Now you’ve got yourself a bubbly masterpiece ready to impress anyone lucky enough to share it!
This delightful baked ziti with ground beef is more than just comfort food; it’s an invitation to gather around the table, share stories, and indulge in flavors that warm both body and soul!
You Must Know
- Baked ziti with ground beef is more than just comfort food; it’s a crowd-pleaser that combines gooey cheese, savory beef, and pasta
- The delightful aroma wafting from the oven will make your neighbors jealous
- This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet while boiling the pasta. This way, everything comes together seamlessly, and you’ll save time cleaning up.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat portions in the microwave or bake at 350°F until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To keep your baked ziti creamy, don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente
- Layering cheese on top creates that irresistible golden crust
- Always let it rest for a few minutes before serving to avoid a cheesy lava flow!
Sharing baked ziti with friends always brings back memories of laughter and fun-filled evenings around the dinner table, where everyone asks for seconds!
FAQ
Can I use other meats for baked ziti with ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or sausage work wonderfully as flavorful alternatives.
What type of cheese is best for baked ziti?
A blend of mozzarella and ricotta provides great flavor and creaminess.
How do I prevent sticking when baking?
Grease your baking dish lightly with oil or cooking spray to ensure easy serving.
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food that combines gooey cheese, savory beef, and pasta in a rich marinara sauce. This one-dish wonder is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, offering a delicious blend of flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef until cooked through (6-8 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Stir marinara sauce, garlic powder, and herbs into the meat; simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta with half the mozzarella and some Parmesan.
- Layer half the pasta, half the meat sauce, and all of the cheese mixture in a baking dish. Repeat layers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (220g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
