Irresistible Baked Ziti with Ground Beef: A Family Favorite

Name: Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20); 24 oz marinara sauce; 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

April 22, 2025

Updated:

April 22, 2025

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Baked ziti with ground beef is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, wrapping you in layers of creamy cheese and tender pasta. The rich aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising a comforting meal that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist.

Picture this: it’s a Sunday afternoon, and the family is gathered around the table, laughter echoing as everyone digs into their plates. That’s when I first made baked ziti with ground beef for my crew. The delighted sighs and compliments were music to my ears! This dish is perfect for gatherings, cozy dinners, or just when you need a little extra comfort food in your life.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Baked ziti with ground beef is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
The flavor profile combines savory beef and tangy marinara sauce with ooey-gooey cheese that everyone loves
Visually, it’s an appealing mix of golden cheese and vibrant red sauce that looks fantastic on any dinner table
Plus, it’s versatile—perfect as leftovers or for meal prep

I remember the first time I served this baked ziti with ground beef at a family gathering; my cousin declared it “life-changing,” prompting an enthusiastic round of applause from the kids.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Ziti Pasta: Use rigatoni or penne if you can’t find ziti; they all work beautifully in this recipe.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef helps keep things healthy without sacrificing flavor; aim for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade; just ensure it’s thick enough to hold up well.
Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it adds a beautiful texture to your dish.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Use low-moisture mozzarella for better melting; it’s the ultimate gooey topping everyone loves.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for topping; it adds a delightful nuttiness and crisp finish after baking.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like basil and oregano enhances the flavor profile wonderfully.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder can elevate the dish’s aroma and taste without too much effort.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to taste; they bring out all the flavors beautifully.

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 water in a large pot over high heat. Add salt generously before tossing in your ziti pasta. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Sauté the Beef: While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Brown until fully cooked and no longer pink.

Add Marinara Sauce: Once your meat is browned, pour in marinara sauce. Stir well to combine flavors while letting it simmer gently for about 5 minutes.

Mix Cheeses Together: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with garlic powder and half of your grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully against the savory meat sauce.

Layer Your Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta followed by half of the meat sauce mixture. Spread half of the ricotta mixture on top before adding more pasta and sauce.

Topping Time!: Finally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the top along with remaining Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbling and golden brown.

If you follow these steps closely, you’ll have an irresistible baked ziti with ground beef ready to impress family and friends! Enjoy every cheesy bite as you bask in compliments—you deserve it!

You Must Know

Baked ziti with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food
It combines cheesy goodness with hearty flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself going back for seconds—this dish is simply irresistible!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot. Cook the pasta while preparing the sauce for maximum efficiency and flavor. Layer everything together and bake until bubbly and golden.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or even a meatless option. Adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms can enhance flavor and nutrition. Experiment with different cheeses for unique tastes.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring that the cheese stays melty.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To prevent sogginess, avoid overcooking your pasta; al dente is best
Layering cheese between pasta helps achieve that gooey texture everyone loves
Always let it rest before serving for perfect slices every time

Sometimes, I whip up baked ziti when friends visit, and their smiles say it all—it’s pure happiness on a plate!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use a different type of meat in baked ziti with ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter option.

How do I prevent my baked ziti from being too dry?

Ensure your sauce is generous and cover with foil during baking to retain moisture.

What cheese works best for baked ziti with ground beef?

Mozzarella is classic, but ricotta adds creaminess; feel free to mix them!

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