Ground Beef Baked Ziti
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Savor the comforting flavors of Ground Beef Baked Ziti, a hearty Italian-American dish that's perfect for family dinners.
Ground Beef Baked Ziti is a classic comfort food that brings together the rich flavors of beef and cheese, layered with ziti pasta and a robust marinara sauce. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this dish is a family favorite that never disappoints.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a cozy meal
- Easy to make ahead and reheat for busy nights
- Deliciously cheesy with a crispy top layer
The Comfort of Baked Ziti
Baked ziti is more than just a dish; it's a warm hug on a plate. The combination of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and rich marinara sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile that’s hard to resist. This Italian-American classic is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, making it a beloved choice in many homes.
What sets baked ziti apart is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your family's tastes by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or swapping the ground beef for turkey or sausage. This adaptability ensures that each time you make it, you can create a unique dish that caters to your preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best features of Ground Beef Baked Ziti is its meal prep potential. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the last-minute rush.
To reheat, simply pop it in the oven or microwave until heated through. The flavors meld beautifully over time, often making it taste even better than the first serving! With just a little planning, you can enjoy a delicious, satisfying dinner that saves you time and effort.
Cheesy Goodness
Cheese lovers will rejoice at the sight of Ground Beef Baked Ziti, as it’s generously topped with mozzarella and Parmesan. The cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey, satisfying layer that contrasts perfectly with the al dente pasta and flavorful meat sauce. The crispy top adds an appealing texture that enhances the overall experience.
When baked, the cheese forms a golden, bubbly crust that’s simply irresistible. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top just before serving. This not only adds a burst of color but also elevates the dish with fresh flavors.
Ingredients
For the Baked Ziti
- 1 pound ground beef
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
Combine Ingredients
Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the beef, stirring to combine. Mix in the cooked pasta and half of the mozzarella cheese.
Assemble the Dish
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the beef and pasta mixture. Dollop ricotta cheese over the top, then add the remaining pasta mixture. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Ground Beef Baked Ziti is a filling dish that pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread. A simple mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the baked ziti beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread, on the other hand, is perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce on your plate.
For a heartier meal, consider serving a side of roasted vegetables. The caramelized flavors of roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add a nutritious and colorful element to your dinner table.
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying this delicious dish, storing them is simple. Allow the baked ziti to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to label your containers with the date for easy reference.
When reheating leftovers, you might want to add a splash of marinara sauce to keep the dish moist. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from burning, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors of your baked ziti even days later!
Variations to Try
While the classic Ground Beef Baked Ziti is a favorite, there are numerous variations to explore. For a vegetarian option, try substituting the ground beef with lentils or a medley of your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. This not only adds nutritional value but also enhances the dish's flavor profile.
Another fun twist is to experiment with different types of cheese. Adding provolone or fontina can give your baked ziti a unique taste. Mixing in some spicy Italian sausage can also elevate the flavor, providing an exciting kick to this comforting dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
→ Can I freeze baked ziti?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Bake from frozen, adding about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What can I serve with baked ziti?
Baked ziti pairs well with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Ground Beef Baked Ziti
Savor the comforting flavors of Ground Beef Baked Ziti, a hearty Italian-American dish that's perfect for family dinners.
Created by: Natalie Briggs
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Baked Ziti
- 1 pound ground beef
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the beef, stirring to combine. Mix in the cooked pasta and half of the mozzarella cheese.
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the beef and pasta mixture. Dollop ricotta cheese over the top, then add the remaining pasta mixture. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 26g