Baked Ziti With Ground Beef

Creamy, Cheesy, and Comforting Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a bubbling tray of Baked Ziti with Ground Beef—a dish that transports us to cozy family dinners filled with laughter, warmth, and the irresistible aroma of melting cheese. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food that kids and adults alike adore. Rich layers of ziti pasta mingled with savory ground beef, nestled in marinara sauce, crowned with gooey mozzarella, and balanced with creamy ricotta create a unique experience that feels like a warm hug. If you’re looking for a quick yet indulgent dish for a busy weeknight or a party that needs a crowd-pleaser, Baked Ziti should be at the top of your list!

Are You Ready for a Cheese Overload?

Imagine pulling a golden-brown dish from the oven, the cheese bubbling and stretching with each serving, enticing everyone around the table to dive in. Doesn’t that sound irresistible? What’s your favorite comfort food that brings back cherished memories of home? Perhaps it’s this baked delight or something equally comforting?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is more than just a meal; it’s a ticket to blissful culinary satisfaction! This recipe stands out due to its effortless preparation, making it perfect for anyone—even if you’re short on time. With minimal ingredients, this dish is not only quick but also highly customizable, ensuring it’s a consistent crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s hearty enough to transition from day-to-night dinners, potlucks, or even cozy weekend gatherings.

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, you’ll need:

• 1 pound ziti pasta
  The star of the dish, ziti pasta, holds every flavor beautifully and has the perfect bite.

• 1 pound ground beef
  Juicy and savory, the ground beef adds a savory depth that complements the sauce.

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  A vibrant tomato sauce that binds the ingredients together, enhancing every bite with its tangy flavor.

• 1 can (15 oz) ricotta cheese
  Creamy ricotta brings a luscious texture and rich flavor that melts into the pasta.

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  This gooey, stretchy cheese forms a delightful layer on top that’s visually inviting and oh-so-satisfying.

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  Earthy and nutty, Parmesan elevates the dish and adds a sophisticated touch.

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  This blend of herbs infuses your ziti with the fragrant Italian essence.

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  A dash of garlic enhances the savory profile, making every bite intriguing.

• Salt and pepper to taste
  Season to your liking to enhance all the robust flavors.

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
  These colorful herbs offer a fragrant finish and a touch of freshness to the dish.

Timing

Perfectly timed, this Baked Ziti with Ground Beef strikes a balance between being fast and indulgent—a satisfying meal that can be made in just about an hour. While you can cook every ingredient to perfection in less time than it takes to order takeout, the aroma that fills the air will feel luxurious, satisfying any craving.

Step-by-Step

Let’s dive into how you can whip up this cheesy masterpiece in no time!

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet over medium heat, toss in the ground beef and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula while it cooks.

4. After browning the beef, stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

5. In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti, the beef and marinara mixture, and the ricotta cheese until well combined.

6. Transfer half of the ziti mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top, add the remaining ziti mixture, and finish it off with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Imagine a perfectly golden crust that breaks away to reveal layers of creamy goodness—it’s simply irresistible!

Nutritional Information

A single serving of Baked Ziti can range from 450-600 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used. This dish is rich and hearty, making it an occasional indulgence worth relishing without guilt.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re aiming for a lower-calorie version, consider swapping in whole wheat ziti for added fiber, or using ground turkey in place of beef for a leaner option. Dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella options are also available, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delectable dish guilt-free!

Serving Suggestions

Baked Ziti makes for an excellent main course, but why not elevate your meal? Serve it alongside a fresh green salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette or garlic bread smeared with herb-infused butter for the ultimate pasta night. For dessert, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance out the savory richness—how delicious does that sound?

Common Mistakes

Even the best chefs can make missteps, so here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overbaking: Ensure you keep an eye on your ziti in the oven to avoid a dry or tough texture.
• Messy layers: Allow your ziti to set for a few minutes before slicing to maintain clean layers.
• Undercooked pasta: Always cook your pasta just right; al dente is the way to go to avoid soggy noodles when baking.

Storing Tips

Baked Ziti is a fantastic make-ahead option! You can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before popping it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Tempted to Bake It ASAP?

Whip out that oven mitt and prepare to create a dish that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart! Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings and comforting meals that bring us together. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and dive into this cheesy delight tonight!

FAQs

• Can I use different pasta shapes?
  Yes, feel free to substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni!

• What if I don’t like ground beef?
  Ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian blend would work beautifully.

• Can I prepare this in advance?
  Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day ahead and bake it when you’re ready.

• Can this recipe be doubled?
  Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled for a larger crowd.

• How do I prevent leftovers from getting soggy?
  Ensure it’s cooled before storing, and reheat in the oven rather than the microwave for the best texture.

Indulge in this savory delight, and let Baked Ziti with Ground Beef be your next kitchen triumph!

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

A nostalgic and comforting dish featuring ziti pasta, savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 525

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Meat

• 1 pound ziti pasta The star of the dish, holds every flavor beautifully.
• 1 pound ground beef Juicy and savory, adds depth to the sauce.

Sauce Ingredients

• 1 jar 24 oz marinara sauce Vibrant sauce that binds everything together.
• 1 can 15 oz ricotta cheese Creamy texture that blends with the pasta.

Cheese Toppings

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Gooey and stretchy, forms the delightful top layer.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a sophisticated touch.

Seasoning and Garnish

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Infuses ziti with Italian flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances the savory profile.
• to taste Salt and pepper Season to your preference.
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional) Adds a touch of freshness.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Assembly

1. Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for about 5 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti, beef and marinara mixture, and ricotta cheese until well combined.
3. Transfer half of the ziti mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top, and add the remaining ziti mixture.
4. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Baking

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serving

1. Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

For lower-calorie alternatives, use whole wheat ziti or ground turkey. It can be made ahead and frozen for later use.