Ultimate Baked Ziti with Ground Beef: Comfort Food Delight

There’s something magical about baked ziti with ground beef that makes it feel like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Picture this: layers of gooey cheese melting into perfectly cooked pasta, mingling with savory ground beef and a rich tomato sauce, all baked to bubbling perfection. The aroma wafts through your home, wrapping you in a comforting embrace that even grandma would envy.

Now, if you’ve ever had one of those days where the world feels like it’s doing its best impersonation of a circus, this dish is your ticket to the calmest intermission. Imagine your loved ones gathering around the table, forks at the ready, eyes gleaming with anticipation as you unveil this cheesy masterpiece. It’s the kind of meal that instantly transports you back to family dinners filled with laughter and love, making it perfect for any occasion.

You won’t believe how much love and joy this baked ziti with ground beef recipe brings to the table; my cousin once declared it “life-changing” after just one bite!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ziti Pasta: Choose medium-sized ziti for perfect bites; you can also use penne if that’s what you have on hand.

• Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option while still enjoying juicy flavor.

• Marinara Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade marinara; either way, it needs to be thick and hearty.

• Ricotta Cheese: Fresh ricotta adds creaminess; look for good quality for maximum flavor and texture.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The more, the merrier! Use good quality mozzarella for that stretchy cheese pull we all crave.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan gives a nutty flavor; don’t skip it unless you want a sad ziti.

• Fresh Basil (optional): For garnish and added flavor; fresh herbs can elevate any dish’s appeal!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot over high heat. Add ziti pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse briefly under cool water to prevent sticking.

Sauté Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as you go—about 5-7 minutes should do the trick!

Add Sauce and Cheese Mixture: Stir in marinara sauce into the skillet with ground beef until well combined. In another bowl, mix ricotta cheese with salt and pepper to taste.

Layer Your Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta at the bottom followed by half of the meat sauce mixture.

Create Cheese Layers: Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese mixture evenly across the meat sauce layer. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese before repeating layers with remaining ingredients.

Bake to Perfection!: Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Then remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

This baked ziti will fill your home with heavenly aromas that will have everyone asking, “Is dinner ready yet?” Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef and onions first, then boil the pasta while preparing the sauce. This sequence saves time and ensures everything is hot and ready to combine perfectly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or zucchini. You can also experiment with different cheeses to create a unique flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring the cheese remains melty and delicious.

Sometimes I find myself reminiscing about the first time I made baked ziti with ground beef for my family. Everyone loved it, and my grandma even asked for the recipe—now that’s a win!

FAQ

Can I use other types of meat in baked ziti with ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as alternatives to ground beef.

How can I make baked ziti with ground beef vegetarian?

Substitute ground beef with mushrooms or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.

What’s the best way to freeze baked ziti with ground beef?

Cool it completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in an airtight container.

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Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

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Baked ziti with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings. This hearty dish features layers of al dente pasta smothered in rich marinara, savory ground beef, and a blend of creamy cheeses that create a mouthwatering experience. With its enticing aroma and gooey texture, every bite feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Gather your loved ones around the table and dive into this deliciously satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

• Author: Logan Reed
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz medium ziti pasta
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil salted water in a large pot; cook the ziti pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Stir in marinara sauce until well combined; season with salt and pepper.
5. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with salt and pepper.
6. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta followed by half of the meat sauce mixture.
7. Dollop ricotta cheese evenly across the meat sauce layer; sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
8. Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 760mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg