Ultimate Baked Ziti with Ground Beef: Comfort Food Bliss

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

September 7, 2025

Updated:

September 7, 2025

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Baked ziti with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food, a glorious dish that oozes cheese and hugs your taste buds. Picture it: layers of tender pasta, savory ground beef swimming in rich marinara sauce, and a melty blanket of cheese that pulls away in gooey strings when you dive in for a forkful. It’s like getting a warm hug from Grandma after a long day.

This dish doesn’t just taste amazing; it brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter and love filled the air. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday celebration, baked ziti has this uncanny ability to steal the show. The aroma wafting from the oven promises an explosion of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This baked ziti with ground beef is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

The combination of flavors creates a satisfying meal that pleases both kids and adults alike
Visually appealing with its melted cheese topping, it will impress your guests at any gathering

Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on your pantry staples or dietary needs

I still remember the first time I made baked ziti; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it and practically licked their plates clean, leaving me feeling like a culinary superstar.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Ziti Pasta: Choose medium-sized ziti for the best sauce adherence; you can substitute penne if needed.
Ground Beef: Go for medium or lean ground beef to balance flavor and health; browning it well enhances the dish.
Marinara Sauce: A good quality jarred sauce saves time; opt for one with herbs for added flavor.

Ricotta Cheese: Light and creamy ricotta adds richness; mix in an egg for better binding.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, creating that perfect cheesy topping everyone loves.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds depth; always better than pre-grated versions.

Fresh Basil or Parsley: These fresh herbs brighten up the dish; chop them finely before adding.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These spices enhance flavor without overpowering; adjust to your taste preference.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all flavors; don’t forget to taste along the way!

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). While it’s heating up, grab a large pot and fill it with water for boiling your pasta.

Cook the Ziti Pasta: Once the water is boiling, add salt generously and toss in the ziti. Cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked—about 5-7 minutes—stirring occasionally until it’s no longer pink. The aroma will be heavenly!

Add Marinara Sauce & Spices: Pour in your marinara sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.

Create Your Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with one egg (if using), half of your chopped fresh basil or parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy and inviting.

Layer Everything Up!: In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta at the bottom. Spread half of the meat sauce over this layer followed by dollops of ricotta mixture. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese before repeating these layers one more time.

Bake Until Golden & Bubbling!: Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking) and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

After letting it cool for about 10 minutes (if you can wait), serve up generous portions of baked ziti with ground beef! You’ll hear echoes of “Mmm” around the table—music to any cook’s ears!

You Must Know

Baked ziti with ground beef is a cozy dish that warms the soul
The layers of cheesy goodness and savory meat sauce create a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen

It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef while boiling the pasta; multitasking saves time and maximizes flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef with turkey or add veggies like spinach for extra nutrition and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

This baked ziti with ground beef offers layers of flavor and comfort

Ensure your pasta is al dente to prevent mushiness
A sprinkle of fresh basil on top elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise, making it dinner party worthy!

Sharing my first attempt at baked ziti brings back fond memories; it was a hit at a potluck, and everyone asked for seconds!

FAQs

FAQ

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

Absolutely! Assemble it beforehand and refrigerate; just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What type of pasta works best for baked ziti?

Ziti is traditional, but penne or rigatoni also work great for this dish.

Can I freeze baked ziti with ground beef?

Yes, freeze before baking for up to three months; just thaw and bake when needed.

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