Picture this: a bubbling dish of Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, its cheesy top glistening under the warm kitchen lights, beckoning you with aromas that make your mouth water. The blend of rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and savory ground beef creates a symphony of flavors that can turn any mundane meal into an extraordinary feast. This dish isn’t just food it’s comfort on a plate, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in when you need something hearty and satisfying.
Now, let’s take a trip down memory lane. I recall the first time I made Baked Ziti with Ground Beef for my family. It was a chilly Sunday evening, and I wanted to impress my skeptical teenage brother who thought he could out-cook me. As the ziti baked in the oven, filling our home with its delightful scent, I could hear my brother’s stomach rumbling from across the room. That dish not only won him over but also became a staple in our household an edible hug that always brings us together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The flavor profile balances richness and acidity perfectly, tantalizing your taste buds
- Its vibrant layers of cheese and sauce create an enticing visual appeal that will impress guests
- This recipe is versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or cheeses based on what you have at home
I vividly remember my friends’ reactions as they devoured the first bites there were no words, just satisfied nods and happy faces.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ziti Pasta: Opt for sturdy ziti that holds up well against the sauce and cheese for maximum enjoyment.
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for flavor without excessive grease it keeps the dish balanced.
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade either way, it should be rich and flavorful.
- Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta adds richness consider mixing in some herbs for extra flavor.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The more cheese, the better This provides that gooey melt we all crave.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan on top enhances flavor and gives a beautiful golden crust.
- Fresh Basil: Fresh basil elevates the dish with its aromatic touch add it right before serving for brightness.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These seasonings pack a punch of flavor without overwhelming the dish.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all those delicious flavors in each bite.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking once your ziti is ready to go in.
Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook ziti until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while keeping an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Sauté the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned and cooked through about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until it’s nice and crumbly.
Add Flavorful Ingredients: Mix in marinara sauce along with garlic powder and onion powder into the beef mixture. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld those flavors beautifully.
Combine Components Together : In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with ricotta cheese until well combined. Fold in half of the mozzarella cheese for that creamy goodness throughout.
Layer & Bake : In a baking dish, layer half of the ziti mixture followed by half of the meat sauce. Repeat layers and finish with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
With each step leading to cheesy perfection, your kitchen will soon fill with enticing smells that make everyone wonder what’s cooking
Now that you have your Baked Ziti with Ground Beef ready to serve up hot from the oven, gather ‘round your dining table or couch if you prefer and enjoy this comforting classic Whether you’re serving it during family game night or at a casual dinner party with friends, every bite promises warmth and satisfaction guaranteed
You Must Know
- Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a comforting dish that’s perfect for family gatherings
- Its cheesy goodness and hearty flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, while its aroma fills your kitchen like an Italian trattoria
- Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef, then cook the pasta while preparing your sauce. This ensures everything is ready at the same time, making your baked ziti nice and hot when served.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in sausage for ground beef or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Experimenting keeps the dish fresh and exciting each time you make it
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through to maintain that cheesy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses for extra flavor mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan blend beautifully
- Don’t overcook your pasta al dente is best so it holds up when baked
- Let it rest after baking this helps set the layers and makes serving easier
Sharing my first attempt at this recipe brings back fond memories of my friends raving about how delicious it was. Their smiles while devouring every bite made all my efforts worthwhile.
FAQ
Can I use other meats besides ground beef?
Absolutely Ground turkey or Italian sausage work wonderfully in baked ziti.
How can I make baked ziti vegetarian?
Simply omit the meat and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant.
What’s the best way to freeze baked ziti?
After baking, let it cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil for freezing.
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a comfort food classic that will delight your family and friends. This cheesy, hearty dish features tender pasta layered with savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and three kinds of cheese for an irresistible flavor experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare and customize. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or as leftovers, each bite promises warmth and satisfaction.
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
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat for about 7-10 minutes. Add marinara sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder; simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix cooked ziti with ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella.
- Layer half of the ziti mixture in a baking dish, top with half of the meat sauce, then repeat layers. Finish with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg