Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a delicious and hearty dish that brings comfort to any meal. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home. This recipe combines pasta, meat, and cheese, creating a filling and satisfying meal that everyone loves. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in advance!

How to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Ingredients:

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt to taste
• Fresh basil (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once cooked, mix in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. In a bowl, combine the cooked ziti with ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix well.
5. Layer half of the pasta mixture in a greased baking dish. Top it with half of the meat sauce, then repeat the layers.
6. Finish with the remaining meat sauce and sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella on top.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

How to Serve Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Baked Ziti can be served hot straight from the oven. Cut it into squares and place them on plates. You can add fresh basil on top for a touch of color and flavor. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a full meal.

How to Store Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

To store leftovers, let the ziti cool to room temperature and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to cover it well with foil or plastic wrap.

Tips to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

• Use lean ground beef to keep it healthier.
• Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• For a spicy kick, you can add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
• If you like extra cheese, layer in some provolone or fontina for more flavor.

Variation

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using sautéed mushrooms or eggplant instead. For a lighter version, try using turkey instead of beef or a meat alternative.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta shape you like. Penne, fusilli, or even rigatoni work well.

2. Can I make Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. How do I know when it’s done?
It’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown. You can also insert a knife in the center; if it comes out hot, it’s ready to eat!