Baked ziti with ground beef is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor. This easy, satisfying dish combines cheesy pasta with savory beef and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, it’s a family favorite that everyone will love. With just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that’s both delicious and filling.
Why We Love These
Baked ziti with ground beef is the definition of comfort food. It’s a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying, offering the perfect balance of cheesy goodness, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce. Here’s why it’s a go-to meal for so many:
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can pull this dish together in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and hard to mess up.
- Family-Friendly: The combination of pasta, ground beef, and cheese makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Kids and adults alike can’t resist digging into a hot, cheesy casserole that’s full of flavor.
- Versatile: You can easily adjust this recipe based on what you have on hand. Add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or switch up the meat by using ground turkey. This recipe is a great way to get creative with what you have in your pantry.
- Comforting: After a long day, nothing beats the feeling of sitting down to a warm, cheesy plate of baked ziti. It’s a meal that feels like a hug in a dish, making it perfect for those cozy nights in.
- Perfect for Leftovers: The best part about baked ziti is that it tastes even better the next day. It’s a great option for meal prep or to enjoy as leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
This recipe has everything you need for a delicious, filling meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s a true comfort food classic that’s simple, satisfying, and always a hit!
Ingredients
- Ziti pasta – 1 pound
- Ground beef – 1 pound
- Mozzarella cheese – 2 cups, shredded
- Ricotta cheese – 1 ½ cups
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
- Tomato sauce – 3 cups
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Onion – 1 medium, chopped
- Italian seasoning – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
Instructions
Making baked ziti with ground beef is as easy as it is delicious! Follow these simple steps to create a comforting, cheesy meal that’s perfect for any occasion:
Cook the pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the sauce:
Warm a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and soft, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, using a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the beef is browned and cooked through.
Stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning, then season with salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Combine the pasta and sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and sauce mixture. Stir in the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is well coated.
Assemble the baked ziti:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake:
Seal the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Next, take off the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve:
Let the baked ziti rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Enjoy your homemade baked ziti with ground beef! This dish is perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep.
Pro Tips and Variations
Baked ziti with ground beef is incredibly versatile, and with a few simple tweaks, you can make it your own. Here are some pro tips and variations to take this dish to the next level:
Cheese Layering: For an extra cheesy dish, add more layers of mozzarella and ricotta throughout the pasta mixture, not just on top. This ensures every bite is filled with creamy, melty cheese.
Add Veggies: To make the dish a bit healthier, you can sneak in some vegetables. Consider adding spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the beef and tomato sauce mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara sauce. This adds a flavorful punch without overpowering the dish.
Switch the Meat: Ground beef is the classic choice, but you can easily swap it out. Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or go for Italian sausage for an extra burst of flavor.
Make It Gluten-Free: If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap out the regular pasta for gluten-free ziti or penne. You can also ensure the tomato sauce and cheese are gluten-free for a complete gluten-free meal.
Bake Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the entire recipe ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just pop it in the oven for a bit longer if it’s cold from the fridge.
Freezing for Later: If you have leftovers or want to prepare a meal for later, baked ziti freezes wonderfully. Once baked, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to eat, simply bake it from frozen, adding a little extra time for heating.
Serving Suggestions
Baked ziti with ground beef is a hearty, satisfying dish that pairs well with many sides to complete the meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience:
Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to baked ziti. The crispy texture and garlicky flavor complement the cheesy, savory pasta beautifully.
Simple Salad: Pair your baked ziti with a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette works wonderfully. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for baked ziti with ground beef?
Yes, you can easily swap ground beef for other meats. Ground turkey or chicken are great lighter alternatives, while Italian sausage adds a bit more flavor to the dish. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using plant-based ground meat or even a mix of mushrooms for a hearty texture.
Can I prepare baked ziti in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it into the oven. If it’s coming from the fridge, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.