Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
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.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook ziti until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; let simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta with half of the mozzarella and some salt.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the pasta, followed by meat sauce and dollops of the cheese mixture; repeat layers.
- 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