The aroma of bubbling cheese and rich, savory ground beef wafts through the air as you prepare to dive into a plate of Baked Ziti with Ground Beef. This dish promises an explosion of flavors that dance on your palate, bringing warm comfort like a hug from your favorite aunt.
Imagine gathering around the dinner table after a long day, laughter filling the room as you dig into a casserole that feels like home. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, this Baked Ziti is the perfect centerpiece for creating memorable moments.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is easy to prepare and offers layers of cheesy goodness
- The flavor profile combines savory beef and tangy tomato sauce for an irresistible taste
- Its visual appeal shines with melted cheese and vibrant herbs on top
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this recipe is versatile enough to impress any crowd
The first time I made this dish, my kids thought I had transformed into a gourmet chef overnight; their delighted faces were priceless.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ziti Pasta: Choose medium-sized ziti; its tubular shape holds onto the sauce beautifully.
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a hearty texture and rich flavor without excess grease.
Marinara Sauce: Opt for your favorite jarred sauce or homemade; both will work wonders in this recipe.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy layer adds richness; use whole milk ricotta for the best results.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts perfectly; don’t skimp—more cheese equals more happiness.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds an extra punch; it’s worth the effort if you can manage.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances the overall flavor; feel free to adjust based on preference.
Olive Oil: A splash helps sauté the beef and adds flavor; use extra virgin for quality.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient in your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking throughout your ziti masterpiece.
Cook the Ziti Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain it and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Sauté Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula—around 5-7 minutes should do.
Add Marinara Sauce and Seasonings: Pour in marinara sauce along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Create Your Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. This creamy concoction will be layered into your ziti later.
Assemble Your Baked Ziti: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti at the bottom. Spread half of the meat sauce over it, dollop half of the ricotta mixture next, and sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat these layers again for maximum deliciousness.
Now isn’t that just mouthwatering? Once you’ve assembled all those scrumptious layers, pop your baking dish into that preheated oven.
After about 25-30 minutes or when you’re blessed with bubbly cheese and golden edges peeking out from underneath that heavenly layer, you’ll know it’s time to pull out your masterpiece from its cheesy sanctuary!
Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving so no one burns their face off trying to devour this culinary delight right away.
And there you have it! A perfect Baked Ziti with Ground Beef that brings family together over hearty servings filled with love—and let’s not forget—lots of cheese! Enjoy every bite while sharing tales of kitchen mishaps because nothing brings people closer than laughter over food!
You Must Know
- Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a crowd-pleaser that combines flavors and textures beautifully
- With its cheesy, gooey goodness and hearty meat sauce, this dish brings smiles to the dinner table every time
- Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef, then cook the pasta while preparing the rich tomato sauce. Combining these elements at just the right time ensures everything comes together seamlessly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Experimenting with spices can elevate flavor profiles and keep things exciting.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is more than a meal; it’s an experience to savor
- Ensure your pasta is al dente before mixing it with sauce, as it will continue cooking in the oven
- Pay attention to layering cheese for that perfect melty finish
Sharing a memorable moment when my sister declared this dish “life-changing” after serving it for her book club felt heartwarming. It showcased how food can bring people together and create lasting memories.
FAQ
What type of cheese is best for Baked Ziti with Ground Beef?
Using a mix of mozzarella and ricotta creates a creamy, delicious texture that everyone loves.
Can I make Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
How can I make Baked Ziti healthier?
Consider using whole wheat pasta and lean ground beef or turkey for a lighter option.
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a comforting, cheesy casserole that brings family and friends together at the dinner table. Layers of tender ziti pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich marinara sauce are combined with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella for a mouthwatering dish. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a festive gathering, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds and create lasting memories.
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook ziti in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown ground beef (5-7 minutes), breaking it apart.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with salt and pepper.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti, half of the meat sauce, half of the ricotta mixture, and half of the mozzarella. Repeat layers.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
