Ground Beef Baked Ziti
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Savor the comforting flavors of Ground Beef Baked Ziti, a classic Italian-American dish that combines hearty ground beef, tender ziti pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked to perfection with gooey mozzarella cheese.
Ground Beef Baked Ziti is a dish that brings together the best of Italian flavors in a family-friendly meal. The combination of savory ground beef, ziti pasta, and melted cheese creates a deliciously satisfying experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for family dinners
- Cheesy goodness that appeals to all ages
- Easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time
A Hearty Family Favorite
Ground Beef Baked Ziti is more than just a meal; it's a comforting dish that brings families together. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is perfect for a satisfying family dinner or a cozy night in. The combination of ziti pasta and ground beef creates a filling meal that even the pickiest eaters will love.
The beauty of this baked ziti lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a great option for everyone at the table. Whether served on a busy weeknight or for a special occasion, Ground Beef Baked Ziti is sure to become a go-to recipe for your family.
The Perfect Comfort Food
When the weather turns chilly or you just need a little pick-me-up, Ground Beef Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food. The gooey mozzarella cheese, combined with the savory meat sauce, creates a warm and inviting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, reminiscent of home-cooked meals shared around the dining table.
Not only does this dish satisfy hunger, but it also provides a sense of comfort and well-being. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a dish that you’ll crave time and time again. Plus, its delightful aroma wafting from the oven fills your home with warmth, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
Easy Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of the best aspects of Ground Beef Baked Ziti is its ease of preparation. You can whip it up in no time, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights. Additionally, it can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to simply pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts who want to save time during the week.
Leftovers are just as delicious! In fact, many people find that the flavors deepen and improve the next day. Simply store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge, and you’ll have a ready-to-eat meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients for a delightful baked ziti experience.
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a delicious baked ziti.
Cook the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Mix well and let simmer for about 5 minutes. Add the cooked ziti to the meat sauce and stir until combined.
Assemble and Bake
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the ziti mixture, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat with the remaining ziti and top with Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
Remove from oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Baked Ziti!
Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti
To achieve the ultimate baked ziti, ensure your pasta is cooked al dente before mixing it with the sauce. This prevents the pasta from becoming overly soft during baking. Additionally, consider using a mix of cheeses for added flavor. Combining mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan can elevate your dish to a whole new level of cheesiness.
Another tip is to let your baked ziti rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve. If you want a crispy top, broil it for a minute or two after baking, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Ground Beef Baked Ziti pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread. The crispness of the salad balances the richness of the pasta, while the garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic reduction on your salad for extra flavor.
For a heartier meal, serve the baked ziti alongside roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli. These options not only add nutritional value but also bring vibrant colors to your dinner table, making your meal visually appealing.
Storage and Reheating
To store your baked ziti, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, make sure to cover it with foil to retain moisture and prevent it from drying out.
Reheating in the oven is ideal for maintaining texture, but you can also use the microwave for quicker options. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before warming it up to ensure even heating.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the baked ziti ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve!
→ Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives, or you can even use a meat substitute for a vegetarian option.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the oven or microwave.
→ Can I freeze baked ziti?
Yes, baked ziti freezes well. Make sure to wrap it tightly and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
Ground Beef Baked Ziti
Savor the comforting flavors of Ground Beef Baked Ziti, a classic Italian-American dish that combines hearty ground beef, tender ziti pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked to perfection with gooey mozzarella cheese.
Created by: Ariana Brooks
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Mix well and let simmer for about 5 minutes. Add the cooked ziti to the meat sauce and stir until combined.
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the ziti mixture, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat with the remaining ziti and top with Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 28g