Ground Beef Baked Ziti Recipe: A Comforting Classic
Baked ziti with ground beef is a comforting dish perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping. This hearty recipe combines pasta, marinara sauce, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese into one irresistible casserole. Let’s dive into how you can make this crowd-pleaser effortlessly at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to get started:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef (substitute with ground turkey or plant-based alternatives if preferred)
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pro Tip: For a deeper flavor, choose a marinara sauce with roasted garlic or basil.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the ziti pasta 2 minutes less than the package instructions to avoid overcooking during baking.
- Drain and set aside.
Pro Tip: Toss the cooked pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Ground Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Assemble the Sauce
- Stir the marinara sauce into the cooked beef and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Layer the Baked Ziti
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef sauce mixture.
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture.
- Dollop ricotta cheese over the layer and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, followed by the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a slight kick if you enjoy spicy flavors.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving Suggestions
Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving. Pair this dish with:
- A crisp Caesar salad
- Garlic bread
- A glass of red wine or sparkling water
Pro Tip: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatile: Easily swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead of time and bake when needed.
- Family Favorite: Cheesy, hearty, and satisfying for all ages.
This Ground Beef Baked Ziti Recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a cozy dinner, this dish delivers big on flavor and comfort.
