Name: Delicious Baked Ziti with Ground Beef Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 1 lb lean ground beef; 24 oz marinara sauce; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Have you ever craved a dish that combines gooey cheese, rich meat sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta? Look no further than baked ziti with ground beef! This classic Italian-American dish packs bold flavors and enticing aromas that will leave your taste buds tingling in anticipation. It’s the perfect meal to share on a cold night or during a family gathering.

Imagine the moment when you pull the steaming casserole from the oven. The golden-brown cheese bubbles invitingly on top, while layers of tender pasta soak up the savory marinara sauce. This comforting meal is not just delicious; it brings people together around the dinner table. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, this baked ziti will surely impress your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This baked ziti with ground beef

Family-Friendly Meal: Baked ziti with ground beef is a hit among both kids and adults alike. Its cheesy goodness and satisfying texture make it an ideal choice for family dinners where everyone can dig in and enjoy together.

Easy to Prepare: This recipe simplifies dinner time by allowing you to prepare everything in one baking dish. With minimal prep work and straightforward steps, you’ll have more time to relax while your meal cooks in the oven.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weekdays or meal prepping for future dinners.

Versatile Ingredients: You can customize this recipe based on your family’s tastes or dietary needs. Swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken, use gluten-free pasta, or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta Ziti: Use medium-sized ziti pasta for the best texture; it holds onto the sauce beautifully.
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess fat while still providing rich flavor.
Marinara Sauce: A good quality marinara sauce enhances flavor; opt for homemade or store-bought.
Ricotta Cheese: Provides creaminess; choose whole milk ricotta for optimal richness.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Essential for that gooey topping; use whole milk mozzarella for best results.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds depth of flavor; fresh grated works best.

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 Your Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking once you put your assembled dish inside.

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add ziti pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked—about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat before adding marinara sauce.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with the meat-sauce combination. Stir in ricotta cheese until evenly distributed throughout.

Assemble Your Dish: Spread half of the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top. Layer remaining pasta mixture followed by remaining mozzarella and grated parmesan on top.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Place your assembled baked ziti into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional marinara if desired for the perfect finishing touch.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Add Extra Flavor: For added depth, consider sautéing chopped onions and garlic along with your ground beef before adding marinara sauce.

Use Fresh Herbs: Garnish your baked ziti with chopped basil or parsley after baking for a pop of color and freshness that elevates flavors.

Make It Ahead: Prepare your baked ziti up to two days in advance; simply cover tightly with foil before refrigerating. When ready to bake, remove from fridge about an hour beforehand.

Cover While Baking: If you notice that cheese is browning too quickly during baking, loosely cover it with foil halfway through cooking time to prevent burning while ensuring everything cooks evenly.

Experiment With Cheese Blends: Mixing different cheeses like provolone or gouda can create unique flavor profiles that enhance your baked ziti experience!

With these simple tips in mind, you’re ready to create a mouthwatering baked ziti with ground beef that everyone will love!

Mistakes to avoid

Not Pre-Cooking the Pasta

One common mistake when making baked ziti with ground beef is not pre-cooking the pasta. Many believe that simply mixing uncooked pasta with sauce will yield great results. However, this can lead to undercooked pasta or a dry dish. To ensure your baked ziti has the right texture, cook the pasta for about 6-8 minutes before combining it with the sauce and cheese. This helps achieve that perfect al dente bite while allowing for further cooking in the oven.

Using Low-Quality Ingredients

Another pitfall is opting for low-quality ingredients. The flavor of your baked ziti with ground beef heavily relies on the quality of the meat, cheese, and sauce you use. Always choose lean ground beef and fresh cheeses like mozzarella and ricotta for better taste and texture. Additionally, using a high-quality marinara sauce can elevate your dish significantly. Investing in good ingredients makes a noticeable difference in flavor and overall enjoyment of your meal.

Overloading on Cheese

While cheese is essential for a delicious baked ziti with ground beef, overloading can ruin your dish. Too much cheese can result in a greasy texture and mask other flavors in the recipe. Aim for a balanced approach by using just enough mozzarella and ricotta to create a creamy layer without overwhelming the dish. A good rule of thumb is to use about two cups of shredded mozzarella combined with one cup of ricotta for optimal flavor and texture.

Skipping Fresh Herbs

Neglecting fresh herbs is another mistake to avoid when preparing baked ziti with ground beef. Fresh basil or parsley can enhance the overall flavor profile dramatically but are often overlooked. Adding chopped fresh herbs either into the meat mixture or as a garnish before serving adds a burst of freshness that balances well with rich cheeses and hearty meat. Make it a habit to incorporate herbs; they will elevate your baked ziti significantly.

Conclusion

When preparing baked ziti with ground beef, avoiding these common mistakes ensures that your dish turns out perfectly every time. By pre-cooking your pasta, choosing high-quality ingredients, balancing your cheese usage, and adding fresh herbs, you’ll create a flavorful meal that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy cooking!

Serving Suggestions

This baked ziti with ground beef is versatile and pairs wonderfully with garlic bread. The warm, buttery flavor of the bread complements the richness of the cheese and meat sauce, making each bite more satisfying. Serve it alongside a simple side salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast that balances the hearty dish. You can also consider pairing it with steamed broccoli or green beans, as these add a touch of color and nutrition to your meal.

Another excellent serving suggestion is to enjoy baked ziti with ground beef alongside a glass of red wine. A medium-bodied wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, enhances the flavors without overpowering them. For a lighter option, a sparkling water with lemon can cleanse the palate between bites, ensuring each taste remains delightful. Lastly, you might want to serve this dish at gatherings; it’s easy to prepare in large batches and sure to please your guests.

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for baked ziti with ground beef?

To make delicious baked ziti with ground beef, gather essential ingredients like ziti pasta, ground beef, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning. These components work together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish that everyone will love. It’s advisable to have fresh herbs on hand as well for an added layer of flavor.

Can I make baked ziti with ground beef ahead of time?

Yes! Preparing baked ziti with ground beef ahead of time is convenient. You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to keep moisture in. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the covering and place it in the oven at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes until it’s heated through.

How do I store leftovers of baked ziti with ground beef?

Leftover baked ziti with ground beef should be cooled completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until heated thoroughly. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming it up.

Can I use different types of cheese for my baked ziti with ground beef?

Absolutely! While traditional recipes call for ricotta and mozzarella cheeses in baked ziti with ground beef, you can experiment with various cheeses based on personal preferences. Cheddar adds sharpness while provolone offers a unique flavor profile. Feel free to mix cheeses for added depth and creaminess in your dish!

Conclusion

Baked ziti with ground beef is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for any occasion. This dish combines tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and melty cheeses into one delicious casserole that is sure to satisfy everyone at your table. Pair it wisely with garlic bread or a light salad for balanced flavors. Make-ahead convenience allows you to save time without sacrificing taste; simply store leftovers properly to enjoy later. Experimenting with different cheeses can elevate this classic recipe further while still keeping its essence intact. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or entertaining friends, baked ziti always delivers warmth and joy in every bite!