Easy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef Recipe

Baked ziti with ground beef is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. This Italian-American classic is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. It’s easy to make, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this step-by-step guide will help you create the best-baked ziti with ground beef that’s bursting with flavor. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

To make baked ziti with ground beef, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Colander (for draining pasta)
• Large skillet or frying pan (for cooking ground beef)
• Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
• Mixing bowl (for combining ingredients)
• 9×13 inch baking dish (for baking)
• Aluminum foil (for covering the dish)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater (if using block cheese)

What Do You Need to Prepare Baked Ziti with Ground Beef?

Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need:

Ingredients

• 1 pound (16 oz) ziti pasta
• 1 pound (16 oz) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)

How to Make Easy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is hot enough to bake the ziti evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Stir in the marinara sauce, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the ground beef sauce. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 6: Layer the Baking Dish

Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the pasta, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 7: Bake the Ziti

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Let the baked ziti cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or plant-based ground meat.
2. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes to the sauce.
3. Cheese Lover’s Version: Use a blend of provolone, fontina, and mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
4. Meat Lover’s Twist: Add Italian sausage or pepperoni slices for a meatier dish.
5. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Cooking Notes

• Pasta Texture: Cook the ziti al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
• Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or broth to loosen it.
• Cheese Choices: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve baked ziti with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
• Pair it with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Helpful Tips

• Drain Excess Fat: After browning the ground beef, drain any excess fat to prevent the dish from becoming greasy.
• Layer Evenly: Spread the pasta and cheese layers evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes after baking to set the layers.
• Double the Recipe: This dish freezes well, so consider making a double batch for future meals.

Tips for the Best Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

• Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Let the cheese melt and bubble for a golden, crispy top.
• Customize the recipe with your favorite herbs and spices.

Related Recipes :

• Easy Yaki Udon Recipe
• Easy Beef Taquitos Recipe
• Easy Mexican Carne Guisada Recipe
• Healthy Chicken Piccata Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well as substitutes for ziti.

2. Can I freeze baked ziti?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

3. How do I reheat baked ziti?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake before serving.

Conclusion

Baked ziti with ground beef is a timeless dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this baked ziti will become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!

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