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Baked Ziti with Ground Beef Recipe

Easy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef Recipe

  • Author: Jasmine
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

  • 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)

Instructions

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.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Lunch
  • Cuisine: Americans

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Serves 8
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Protein: 25 g

Keywords: Easy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef Recipe

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