Ultimate Baked Ziti with Ground Beef: Comfort Food Delight

When you think of comfort food, what springs to mind? For many, it’s a steaming plate of baked ziti with ground beef. Imagine the cheesy goodness bubbling away, the rich aroma wafting through your kitchen, and that first bite melting in your mouth like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This dish is a symphony of flavors and textures that can make even the grumpiest of eaters crack a smile.

I remember the first time I made baked ziti with ground beef for my friends. It was a dreary Saturday afternoon, and I thought, “What better way to brighten their day than with layers of cheesy goodness?” As soon as they walked in, they were greeted by the intoxicating scent of garlic and marinara sauce, and I swear I saw some eyes widen in delight. Trust me; this recipe is perfect for family dinners, game nights, or when you just need a little extra love in your life.

Sharing this dish at gatherings has always brought smiles and happy bellies.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ziti Pasta: Use about 12 ounces; its hollow shape holds onto sauce perfectly.

• Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for less grease while still adding great flavor.

• Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce or homemade for an extra touch.

• Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness; use whole milk ricotta for the best texture.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: About 3 cups will give you that gooey, melty topping everyone loves.

• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle on top adds a lovely nutty flavor; fresh grated is highly recommended.

• Fresh Basil or Parsley: Chopped for garnish; it brightens up the dish’s presentation.

• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These spices enhance the overall flavor profile; don’t skip them!

• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to taste; adjust based on preference.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Ziti Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add the ziti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and cooked through, around 5-7 minutes.

Add Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in marinara sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld those fabulous flavors.

Create Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella cheese and some salt. This creamy blend will be layered into your ziti.

Layer Everything Together: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the pasta followed by meat sauce then dollops of cheese mixture. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used up.

Bake it Up!: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

And just like that, you have created an irresistible baked ziti with ground beef! Let it cool slightly before serving so you don’t burn your tongue on that hot cheese layer—trust me on this one!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef while boiling the pasta. Then, prepare a luscious sauce to meld flavors perfectly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in turkey or veggie crumbles for the beef. Add some spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through and bubbly.

Sharing a memorable moment at a potluck, everyone couldn’t stop raving about my baked ziti. One friend even said it tasted like a hug on a plate!

FAQ

Can I make baked ziti with ground beef ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead and bake right before serving.

What can I substitute for ground beef in baked ziti?

Try ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for different flavors.

How do I prevent my baked ziti from drying out?

Cover it with foil while baking until the last few minutes to retain moisture.

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Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

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Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort dish, featuring layers of tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a decadent blend of cheeses. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, offering a delightful combination of flavors that will make your taste buds sing. With its gooey cheese topping and hearty filling, each bite feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck or enjoying leftovers, this baked ziti will surely become a favorite in your household.

• Author: Ethan Carter
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook ziti until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; let simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a bowl, combine ricotta with half of the mozzarella and some salt.
6. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the pasta, followed by meat sauce and dollops of the cheese mixture; repeat layers.
7. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan; bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 670mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg