Ground Beef Baked Ziti

Name: Ground Beef Baked Ziti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 24 oz marinara sauce; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

A comforting classic, this Ground Beef Baked Ziti combines hearty flavors and cheesy goodness in every bite.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-25T18:52:14.615Z

This Ground Beef Baked Ziti is the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner. With layers of pasta, meat, and gooey cheese, it brings everyone together for a delicious meal.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty flavors that satisfy your cravings
Melty cheese that pulls apart beautifully
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

      

A Hearty Family Favorite

Ground Beef Baked Ziti is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings families together around the dinner table. As the aroma of savory beef and melting cheese fills your kitchen, you can almost feel the anticipation in the air. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, offering a satisfying way to please even the pickiest eaters. With its hearty ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a beloved staple in many households.

This baked ziti recipe is particularly appealing because of its versatility. You can customize it to suit your family’s preferences, whether it’s adding vegetables, experimenting with different cheeses, or even swapping out the ground beef for turkey or a meat alternative. The possibilities are endless, making it a go-to dish for any occasion.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best features of Ground Beef Baked Ziti is its meal prep potential. You can easily make a double batch and store half for later, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal on busy days without sacrificing quality or flavor. Just assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake. This not only saves time but also helps reduce food waste, as you can use leftover ingredients from your last grocery shop.

When you’re ready to enjoy your baked ziti, simply pop it in the oven and let it bake to perfection. This makes it an ideal choice for those hectic weeks when meal planning becomes a challenge. Plus, the leftovers reheat wonderfully, ensuring you have delicious lunches or dinners ready to go.

Ideal for Entertaining

Hosting a gathering? Ground Beef Baked Ziti is sure to impress your guests. Its rich flavors and cheesy layers make it a crowd-pleaser, and serving it alongside a fresh salad and some garlic bread creates a well-rounded meal that everyone will love. The vibrant colors and comforting aroma of this dish will create an inviting atmosphere that encourages conversation and laughter.

Additionally, this dish can be made in advance, freeing you up to enjoy time with your guests rather than being stuck in the kitchen. Just prepare it the day before, refrigerate, and bake when your friends arrive. They won’t believe how easy it was to create such a delicious, satisfying meal!

Ingredients

For the Baked Ziti

12 oz ziti pasta
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
24 oz marinara sauce
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Be sure to gather all your ingredients before you start cooking!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the beef mixture. Mix well, then add the cooked ziti to the skillet, stirring to combine everything evenly.

Layer and Bake

In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the ziti mixture. Top with half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pair this dish with a side salad for a complete meal!

Storing and Reheating

Storing your Ground Beef Baked Ziti is simple! If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure to cover the dish with foil to retain moisture, ensuring that the cheese doesn’t dry out. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually about 20-30 minutes.

If you’re reheating individual portions, the microwave works just fine. Just be sure to cover it to prevent splatters and heat in short intervals, stirring between, until warmed through. This makes enjoying your delicious baked ziti easy and convenient!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Beef Baked Ziti, consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the greens complements the richness of the ziti perfectly. You could also add some garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. These additions not only enhance the flavors but also provide a variety of textures and nutrients.

For those who enjoy a little spice, serve the baked ziti with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce. This adds an exciting kick that can take the dish to the next level, pleasing those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

Nutritional Information

Ground Beef Baked Ziti offers a balanced meal with protein from the beef and cheese, carbohydrates from the pasta, and calcium from the dairy. While it is a hearty dish, portion control is key if you're watching your calorie intake. Each serving can be made healthier by incorporating more vegetables or using whole wheat pasta, which adds fiber and nutrients.

If you’re looking for a lower-calorie version, consider using lean ground beef or ground turkey, and opt for low-fat cheese options. You can also increase the veggie content by adding spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the mixture, enhancing both flavor and nutrition without compromising on the classic taste you love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it and refrigerate before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

→ What can I serve with baked ziti?

A side salad and garlic bread make excellent accompaniments.

→ Can this recipe be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw and bake as directed when you are ready to enjoy.