Ground Beef Baked Ziti
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
This hearty ground beef baked ziti is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese for a satisfying meal.
This ground beef baked ziti is a family favorite that's easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of savory beef, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheese creates a dish that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and hearty flavors that satisfy any appetite
- Creamy cheese layer that adds a delightful texture
- Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd
The Perfect Comfort Food
Baked ziti is the epitome of comfort food, offering warmth and satisfaction with every bite. This dish is ideal for chilly evenings when you crave something hearty and filling. The combination of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and gooey cheese creates a harmonious blend that delights the senses. Whether you're sharing a meal with family or enjoying a cozy night in, this baked ziti will surely hit the spot.
What sets this baked ziti apart is its rich meat sauce, which infuses the pasta with robust flavors. Made with quality marinara and seasoned ground beef, each serving is packed with taste. The addition of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses elevates the dish further, providing a creamy texture that complements the other ingredients beautifully. It's a dish that not only satiates hunger but also warms the soul.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This baked ziti recipe is perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week. You can easily make a larger batch and divide it into individual portions. Store the cooled baked ziti in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
For longer storage, consider freezing the baked ziti. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven until heated through. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Customizing Your Baked Ziti
One of the best aspects of baked ziti is its versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. You can also add spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for any added ingredients to ensure everything is cooked to perfection.
If you're a fan of spice, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or Italian sausage for a kick. You can also experiment with different types of cheese—try adding provolone or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a baked ziti that is uniquely yours.
Ingredients
For the Baked Ziti
- 1 pound ground beef
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the cooked beef. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Mix with Pasta
In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta, and meat sauce mixture. Mix until evenly coated.
Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Enjoy your delicious ground beef baked ziti with a side salad or garlic bread!
Nutritional Information
Ground beef baked ziti can be a well-balanced meal when prepared with attention to nutritional value. Each serving provides a good source of protein from the ground beef and ricotta cheese, essential for muscle repair and overall health. The pasta offers carbohydrates that give you energy, while the marinara sauce adds a serving of vegetables, contributing to your daily intake of vitamins and minerals.
To make this dish even healthier, consider using whole grain or gluten-free pasta options. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use lower-fat dairy products to cut down on calories while still enjoying the cheesy goodness.
Serving Suggestions
Baked ziti is a meal that stands well on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the ziti. Garlic bread is another classic accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
For a complete Italian-inspired dinner, consider serving baked ziti with a side of roasted vegetables or a classic Caprese salad. The combination of flavors will elevate your meal and impress your guests, making any occasion feel special.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to bake it. Just remember to adjust the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge or freezer.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese? If you're looking for a ricotta alternative, consider using cottage cheese blended until smooth or a dairy-free ricotta made from nuts or tofu for a vegan option. Both will work well in this dish without sacrificing taste or texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute ziti with penne or any pasta of your choice.
→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked ziti before or after baking. Just ensure it's well-covered.
→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables or a meat substitute.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ground Beef Baked Ziti
This hearty ground beef baked ziti is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese for a satisfying meal.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Baked Ziti
- 1 pound ground beef
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the cooked beef. Simmer for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta, and meat sauce mixture. Mix until evenly coated.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 25g