Irresistible Baked Ziti with Ground Beef Recipe

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food that’s both cheesy and hearty. Imagine a warm, bubbling dish filled with pasta, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese that welcomes you like a warm hug from an old friend. This meal doesn’t just fill your belly; it fills your heart, especially on colder days or when you’re simply looking to indulge in something delicious.

Picture this: It’s a Sunday afternoon, and the aroma of Baked Ziti wafts through the house, drawing family members into the kitchen like moths to a flame. Memories of laughter, stories shared over dinner, and that one cousin who always sneaks extra cheese onto their plate flood back. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this dish promises an unforgettable flavor experience.

The first time I made Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, my friends declared me a culinary wizard. They even suggested I open a restaurant—too bad my cooking skills peaked that day.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ziti Pasta: Choose medium-sized ziti for optimal sauce-to-pasta ratio; it’s perfect for holding all that cheesy goodness.

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option; it provides great flavor without too much grease.

• Marinara Sauce: Opt for a rich, flavorful marinara sauce; homemade is great if you’re feeling adventurous!

• Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella gives that gooey melt factor; go heavy on the cheese for maximum enjoyment.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds depth; sprinkle generously for an extra umami kick.

• Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs enhances flavor; adjust based on personal preference for aromatic goodness.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish; it’s essential for building deep flavors in the sauce.

• Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and texture; sauté until soft for best results.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps sauté the beef and aromatics perfectly without sticking.

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

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add ziti pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while preparing the sauce.

Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and onions turn translucent.

Add Ground Beef: Introduce ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as you go. Drain excess fat if necessary for a leaner dish.

Add Marinara Sauce: Pour marinara sauce into the skillet with cooked beef and stir well. Let simmer for 5-10 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooked ziti with meat sauce until evenly coated. Then fold in half of the mozzarella cheese to create cheesy pockets throughout.

Bake It: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer ziti mixture into a greased baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella and sprinkled parmesan cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Enjoy every bite of your homemade Baked Ziti with Ground Beef!

This comforting dish not only warms your stomach but also creates joyous moments at the dining table—one cheesy bite at a time!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef first to develop flavor, then cook the pasta until al dente while preparing your sauce simultaneously for the best results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or sausage. You can also add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for an extra nutritional boost.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

The first time I made baked ziti, my friends devoured it so fast I barely got a serving! Their compliments inspired me to keep refining the recipe over time.

FAQ

Can I use other types of meat in baked ziti?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or sausage also works beautifully in this baked ziti recipe.

How do I make baked ziti vegetarian?

Simply omit the ground beef and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms instead.

Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes, you can freeze baked ziti! Just ensure it’s well-covered to prevent freezer burn.

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Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of tender pasta, savory marinara, and melty cheese into a dish that warms both heart and home. It’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, offering a delightful blend of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. This easy-to-make recipe is versatile too—personalize it with your favorite ingredients for a unique twist!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Cook the ziti in boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned; drain excess fat if needed.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and let simmer for 5-10 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti with meat sauce and half of the mozzarella cheese.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese, then bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg