Irresistible Baked Ziti with Ground Beef Recipe Delight

Name: Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 1 lb lean ground beef; 3 cups marinara sauce; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt to taste; Fresh basil (optional)

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

August 11, 2025

Updated:

August 11, 2025

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There’s something magical about the aroma of baked ziti with ground beef wafting through your kitchen. Imagine a bubbling dish, oozing with gooey melted cheese and perfectly seasoned meat, waiting to be devoured. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water!

Every time I prepare this dish, I’m reminded of cozy family gatherings where laughter fills the air, and everyone is elbow-deep in cheesy goodness. Baked ziti becomes more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together, making every bite feel like a warm hug.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Preparing baked ziti with ground beef is a breeze, perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings

The rich flavors blend beautifully, creating layers of deliciousness in every bite
It’s visually appealing and sure to impress anyone at your dinner table

Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to dietary preferences or pantry ingredients!

I recall one particular Sunday when my friend came over for dinner. His eyes lit up at the sight of my baked ziti with ground beef, and after the first bite, he proclaimed it was “life-changing.” I can’t promise life-changing experiences, but I can assure you this dish will have your loved ones begging for seconds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Ziti Pasta: Choose tubular pasta for maximum sauce retention; it’s like a cozy blanket for the cheese.
Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to balance flavor and health; it holds up well in the baking process.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade; it adds a rich tomato flavor that’s essential.

Ricotta Cheese: This creamy goodness adds richness; look for whole milk ricotta for a decadent touch.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully and gives that classic stretchy cheese pull we all love.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds a sharp flavor that complements the richness of the other cheeses.

Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances flavor; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
Fresh Basil (optional): Use fresh basil for garnishing; it adds a burst of color and freshness to each serving.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Once boiling, add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.

Sauté the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbly, stirring occasionally. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Marinara Sauce: Pour marinara sauce into the skillet with cooked beef. Stir well and let simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through and aromatic.

Combine Cheeses and Pasta: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with ricotta cheese, half of mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, and salt. Combine until pasta is evenly coated.

Layer Your Ziti: In a greased baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture on the bottom. Top with half of the meat sauce mixture followed by remaining pasta.

Top It Off!: Finish by spreading remaining meat sauce over top layer of pasta. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese generously.

Bake Away!: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover baking dish with foil (avoid touching cheese) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.

Once baked ziti cools slightly, serve it up! Watch as everyone digs in eagerly while you bask in your culinary glory. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

You Must Know

The secret to a great baked ziti with ground beef lies in the layering

A mix of cheeses provides a gooey texture, while fresh herbs add vibrancy
Baking it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s comforting yet exciting

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by browning the ground beef with onions and garlic. Cook pasta while preparing your sauce to save time, then layer everything in a baking dish for optimal flavor and texture.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or sausage. Toss in veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Experimenting with different cheeses can also create unique tastes.

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, ensuring you cover it with foil to keep it moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

A well-seasoned meat mixture is key; don’t skip the spices!
Always taste your sauce before layering
Layering cheese, pasta, and meat evenly ensures every bite is deliciously cheesy and flavorful

Sharing my first experience making baked ziti was memorable; I still hear compliments from friends about how comforting it tasted, especially on a chilly evening.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make baked ziti with ground beef ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day prior and refrigerate before baking.

What type of cheese works best for baked ziti?

A combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan creates a creamy texture.

How do I prevent my baked ziti from being dry?

Ensure enough sauce is used and cover with foil while baking to retain moisture.

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