Have you ever craved a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening? Imagine layers of tender pasta enveloped in rich tomato sauce, mingling perfectly with savory ground beef and gooey melted cheese. This is exactly what you get with baked ziti with ground beef—a comforting meal that brings the whole family together around the dinner table.
Baked ziti is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. With its hearty ingredients and inviting aroma wafting through your home, this dish promises an unforgettable dining experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, every bite will remind you why this classic Italian-American recipe has become a favorite in households everywhere.
Why You’ll Love This baked ziti with ground beef
Comforting Family Favorite: There’s something magical about gathering around a bubbling dish of baked ziti. It’s the kind of meal that sparks conversation and laughter among family and friends. The combination of cheesy goodness and savory meat makes it universally loved by both kids and adults alike.
Easy to Prepare: Preparing baked ziti is straightforward and doesn’t require culinary expertise. In under an hour, you can have this delightful dish ready to serve. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Ingredients: One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily swap out ingredients based on dietary preferences or what’s available in your pantry. Whether you prefer turkey instead of beef or add extra veggies for a healthier twist, the possibilities are endless.
Leftover-Friendly: Baked ziti makes fantastic leftovers! It stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated for lunch or dinner the next day without losing its delicious flavor. You can even freeze portions to enjoy later on those days when cooking feels like too much effort.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ziti Pasta: Use about 12 ounces of ziti pasta for the ideal texture that holds onto the sauce beautifully.
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef (80/20) for a meaty flavor without excess grease.
- Marinara Sauce: A good-quality marinara sauce is essential; opt for homemade or store-bought that has rich flavors.
- Ricotta Cheese: This adds creaminess to your dish; use about 15 ounces for the best texture.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella (about 2 cups) creates that irresistible gooey topping everyone loves.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan (1/2 cup) adds depth of flavor and enhances the overall richness.
For the Seasoning:
- Italian Seasoning: A tablespoon or two elevates your meat sauce with classic Italian herbs like basil and oregano.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make baked ziti with ground beef
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish or casserole pan to prevent sticking.
Cook the Ziti Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook your ziti according to package instructions until al dente—typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked through—around 5-7 minutes—breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
Add Sauce and Seasoning: Once browned, drain excess fat from the skillet if necessary. Stir in your marinara sauce along with Italian seasoning; let it simmer for about five minutes to blend flavors.
Mix Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese along with the meat sauce mixture until well coated.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Transfer everything into your greased baking dish. Top generously with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce as needed for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Check Pasta Doneness: To avoid mushy pasta in your baked ziti, ensure you cook it just until al dente before mixing it into your meat sauce.
Use Quality Cheese: Investing in good-quality cheeses can make all the difference in flavor; try using fresh mozzarella instead of pre-shredded varieties whenever possible.
Add Veggies for Nutrition: For extra nutrition, consider adding sautéed vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers into your meat mixture before combining it with pasta.
Cover While Baking: If you notice excessive browning while baking, cover your dish loosely with aluminum foil during part of cooking time to retain moisture while still getting that golden top layer.
Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing your baked ziti to rest for about ten minutes after removing from oven helps set layers making it easier to slice without falling apart upon serving!
Enjoy crafting this delightful baked ziti with ground beef recipe!
Mistakes to avoid
Using the wrong pasta type
Choosing the right pasta is crucial for your baked ziti with ground beef. Opting for a delicate pasta can lead to breakage and a watery dish. Instead, use ziti or penne, which have a sturdy shape that holds up well during baking. These types of pasta also allow the sauce to cling better, enhancing flavor in every bite. Avoid overcooking the pasta before mixing; it should be al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Stick to these guidelines for the best texture and taste.
Neglecting proper seasoning
Seasoning is key when preparing baked ziti with ground beef. Failing to season both the meat and sauce can lead to a bland final dish. Always salt your pasta water generously before boiling; this adds flavor to the noodles. Use fresh herbs like basil and oregano instead of dried ones for enhanced aroma and taste. Additionally, don’t forget to taste your sauce before layering it into the dish. Adjust salt, pepper, and spices as needed for a savory result that truly satisfies.
Skipping the cheese layer
One of the most delightful aspects of baked ziti with ground beef is its cheesy goodness. Skipping or skimping on cheese can result in a dry dish lacking flavor and creaminess. Make sure to incorporate layers of mozzarella and ricotta throughout the ziti mixture, not just on top. This creates a deliciously gooey texture that melts beautifully while baking. For an extra cheesy experience, consider adding Parmesan cheese in between layers as well. Don’t hold back on this fundamental component!
Overloading with ingredients
While it may be tempting to add various vegetables or meats to your baked ziti with ground beef, overloading can affect cooking time and taste balance. Stick to a few complementary ingredients like spinach or mushrooms if you want added nutrition without overwhelming flavors. Too many additions can create uneven cooking and dilute the core flavors of your dish. Keep it simple for maximum impact and ensure each ingredient shines through in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
This baked ziti with ground beef is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad, tossed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, complements the rich flavors of the dish. Adding some sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes elevates the salad’s appeal and freshness, creating a balanced meal.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider serving garlic bread on the side. The buttery, garlicky taste of warm garlic bread contrasts nicely with the cheesy baked ziti. You can prepare it easily by spreading butter and minced garlic on slices of French bread, toasting them in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes until golden.
A glass of red wine enhances the experience further. Choose a medium-bodied red, like Chianti or Merlot, which will pair beautifully with the hearty flavors of baked ziti. This combination brings out the best in both the food and drink, turning your meal into a delightful occasion.
Lastly, if you want to keep it light, steamed vegetables can be an excellent addition. Broccoli or green beans seasoned lightly with salt and pepper provide a nutritious complement to your meal. Steaming these vegetables for around 5-7 minutes retains their vibrant color and crunch while balancing the richness of baked ziti.
FAQs
What ingredients are needed for baked ziti with ground beef?
To make baked ziti with ground beef, gather ingredients such as ziti pasta, ground beef, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt. These components create a deliciously layered dish that everyone will love.
Can you prepare baked ziti in advance?
Yes! Baked ziti with ground beef is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking when you’re ready to enjoy it.
How do you store leftovers of baked ziti?
Store any leftover baked ziti with ground beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake them at 350°F until warmed through for optimal taste.
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe features ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Alternatively, using Italian sausage will add more spice and flavor to your baked ziti without losing its comforting essence.
Conclusion
Baked ziti with ground beef is a comforting dish that combines layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese into one satisfying meal. Preparing this dish is straightforward; you only need simple ingredients like pasta, ground beef, and cheeses. Pairing it with fresh salads or garlic bread makes for a well-rounded dining experience. If you’re short on time during busy weekdays or planning ahead for gatherings, you can easily make it in advance without sacrificing taste. Storing leftovers properly ensures that you can enjoy this delicious meal multiple times throughout the week. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this baked ziti recipe will surely impress everyone at your table!
Easy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Baked ziti with ground beef is the perfect comfort food, ideal for family dinners or gatherings. This hearty dish combines layers of tender ziti pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich marinara sauce, all topped with creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella cheese. As it bakes to golden perfection, the delightful aroma fills your home, making it impossible to resist. Not only is this recipe simple and quick to prepare, but it also makes for fantastic leftovers, ensuring you can enjoy its delicious flavors throughout the week. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this baked ziti recipe guarantees a satisfying meal that will please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- Cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; let simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan with the meat sauce until well combined.
- Transfer to the greased baking dish; top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 140g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider mixing in sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. You can assemble this dish in advance and refrigerate before baking for convenience. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.