Have you ever craved a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort? Baked ziti with ground beef delivers just that—a hearty blend of pasta, rich sauce, and gooey cheese that tantalizes your taste buds. Picture the aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes to perfection, creating a golden crust that invites you to dig in.
This dish not only offers incredible flavors but also brings back fond memories of family gatherings around the dinner table. Perfect for any occasion—from cozy weeknights to festive celebrations—baked ziti with ground beef promises satisfaction in every bite. Get ready to indulge in this flavor-packed meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This baked ziti with ground beef
Quick and Easy Preparation: This baked ziti recipe is designed for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour. Even novice cooks will find this recipe approachable.
Family-Friendly Meal: Baked ziti appeals to all ages, making it an ideal option for family dinners. The combination of cheesy goodness and familiar flavors ensures that even picky eaters will enjoy every bite.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Leftovers Made Delicious: Baked ziti often tastes even better the next day! The flavors meld together beautifully when stored in the fridge overnight, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or leftovers.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ziti Pasta: Use about 12 ounces of ziti pasta; this sturdy shape holds up well against the sauce and cheese.
- Ground Beef: Approximately 1 pound of lean ground beef works best; it adds rich flavor without excessive grease.
- Marinara Sauce: A jar of your favorite marinara sauce (about 24 ounces) enhances the dish’s flavor profile—look for one without added sugars.
- Ricotta Cheese: About 15 ounces adds creaminess; opt for whole milk ricotta for a richer texture.
- Mozzarella Cheese: A generous amount (around 2 cups shredded) creates that irresistible cheesy topping—use fresh mozzarella for added flavor.
For the Topping:
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate about half a cup of Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top for an extra layer of flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make baked ziti with ground beef
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches) with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Cook Ziti Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Sauté Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked through (about 7-10 minutes), breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Add Marinara Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce into the cooked ground beef. Simmer on low heat for about five minutes so flavors meld together.
Mix Cheeses Together: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella cheese (1 cup) and some salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until creamy.
Assemble Your Dish: Begin layering by adding half of the cooked ziti at the bottom of your greased baking dish. Top it with half of the meat sauce mixture followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layers ending with meat sauce on top. Finally, sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese (1 cup) and Parmesan cheese over everything.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional marinara if desired for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Since you’re baking it later, cook your pasta just until al dente; otherwise, it may become mushy after baking.
Add Fresh Herbs: For an aromatic boost, consider adding fresh basil or parsley into your meat sauce before layering—it elevates flavor tremendously!
Cover While Baking: Cover your baking dish loosely with aluminum foil during the first half of baking to prevent over-browning on top and ensure even heating throughout.
Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to sneak in chopped spinach or zucchini between layers for added nutrition without sacrificing taste; they blend seamlessly into this hearty dish!
Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing your baked ziti to cool slightly before cutting gives it time to firm up—this makes serving easier and prevents messy portions!
Mistakes to avoid
Overcooking the Pasta
One common mistake when making baked ziti with ground beef is overcooking the pasta. Many people think that cooking it until it’s fully tender is necessary, but this can lead to mushy ziti. Instead, cook the pasta for about 2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. This allows it to absorb sauce while baking, resulting in a firmer texture. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so it’s essential to keep it slightly underdone for perfect baked ziti.
Using Low-Quality Meat
The quality of ground beef you use can significantly impact your baked ziti’s flavor. Opting for low-fat or low-quality meat can lead to a dry and unappetizing dish. Instead, choose ground beef with a higher fat content, such as 80/20. This ensures that your meat remains juicy and flavorful when combined with the other ingredients. Cooking the beef properly before mixing it into your ziti is also crucial; make sure it’s browned evenly for optimal taste.
Skipping the Cheese Layering
Another mistake many make is neglecting to layer cheese throughout the dish. While it’s tempting to just sprinkle cheese on top of your baked ziti with ground beef, layering cheese between pasta and sauce adds depth and richness to each bite. Use a combination of mozzarella and ricotta cheese for a creamy texture and delightful flavor. Aim for at least two layers of cheese within your dish for a more satisfying cheesy experience.
Not Letting It Rest
After baking your ziti, patience is essential! Many home cooks serve it right out of the oven, which is a mistake. Allowing your baked ziti with ground beef to rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving lets the flavors meld together and makes for cleaner slices when serving. This resting period helps prevent a soupy mess on each plate and enhances the overall presentation of your dish, making it look as good as it tastes.
Serving Suggestions
This baked ziti with ground beef is versatile and pairs wonderfully with garlic bread. The crunchy, buttery slices of garlic bread complement the cheesy pasta, allowing diners to soak up the rich tomato sauce. Serve them warm for a delightful side dish that enhances the overall meal experience.
A fresh garden salad also makes a great accompaniment. Toss together crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions for a refreshing contrast to the baked ziti. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette, and you have a light side that balances the hearty pasta dish.
Consider pairing your baked ziti with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. The vibrant colors and textures provide an appealing visual alongside the baked ziti while adding vital nutrients to your meal. Season them lightly with salt and pepper for a simple yet satisfying side.
For a more indulgent experience, serve this dish with a side of creamy coleslaw. The crunchiness of the cabbage mixed with a tangy dressing adds another layer of flavor, making every bite enjoyable. This combination works particularly well during gatherings and family dinners.
FAQs
What can I use instead of ground beef in baked ziti?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Alternatively, use Italian sausage for added flavor or even mix in some veggies like mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian twist. These substitutions will still yield a delicious baked ziti.
Can I prepare baked ziti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble your baked ziti with ground beef ahead of time. Cover it tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
How do I store leftovers of baked ziti?
To store leftovers effectively, let your baked ziti cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before enjoying again.
Can I add more cheese to my baked ziti?
Yes! Feel free to increase the cheese amounts according to your preference. Extra mozzarella or ricotta can enhance creaminess and flavor, making your dish even more delicious while still maintaining its classic appeal.
Conclusion
Baked ziti with ground beef is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Its layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and sauce create a comforting dish that appeals to many palates. You can customize it by using different meats or adding vegetables to suit your taste preferences. Pairing this hearty meal with sides like garlic bread, salads, or steamed vegetables enhances the dining experience even further. Don’t forget about storing leftovers properly; they make for quick meals later in the week! Whether you’re serving it at family gatherings or enjoying it on a cozy night at home, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Baked ziti with ground beef is the ultimate comfort dish that brings warmth and joy to your table. This recipe features al dente ziti pasta enveloped in a rich marinara sauce, tender ground beef, and layers of creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this easy-to-make meal can be prepared in under an hour, ensuring a satisfying experience for everyone at the dinner table. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the meats to suit your taste. With its hearty flavors and inviting aroma, this baked ziti will quickly become a cherished staple in your home.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, drain and set aside.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for five minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta with half the mozzarella; season with salt and pepper.
- Layer half of the ziti in the baking dish, followed by half of the meat sauce, dollops of the ricotta mixture, and repeat layers.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg