Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty dish that the whole family will love, this cheesy baked ziti with ground beef is the answer. With layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a classic Italian-American favorite that never disappoints.

This recipe combines savory ground beef, zesty marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella for a delightful meal that comes together easily. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this baked ziti is sure to satisfy those cravings for something warm and cheesy.

Comforting Layers of Flavor

Imagine a warm, cheesy baked ziti that exudes comfort with every bite.

This dish showcases layers of tender pasta enveloped in a rich meat sauce, creating a satisfying meal for any occasion.

Ground beef, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses come together to form a delightful experience that warms the soul.

The Perfect Pasta Base

At the heart of this baked ziti is the pasta.

Ziti is chosen for its ability to hold the sauce and cheese beautifully.

Cooking it to al dente ensures the pasta retains a perfect bite, providing a wonderful texture against the creamy layers.

A Hearty Meat Sauce

The meat sauce adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Ground beef, sautéed with onions and garlic, brings a savory richness.

Simmering it with marinara sauce and spices allows the flavors to meld, creating a robust base that pairs perfectly with the pasta.

A Cheesy Delight

Cheese plays a starring role in this recipe, contributing to its indulgent nature.

The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a creamy and gooey texture that satisfies cheese lovers.

Each layer is generously topped with mozzarella, which melts beautifully in the oven, forming a golden crust.

Baking to Perfection

Serving and Enjoying

Delicious Baked Ziti Recipe

This baked ziti is a satisfying, cheesy dish featuring tender pasta enveloped in a flavorful beef marinara sauce. The combination of creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella creates a deliciously indulgent experience that is both savory and filling.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• 12 ounces ziti pasta
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Combine Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Mix the Cheeses: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Layer the Dish: In a baking dish, spread 1/3 of the meat sauce, then layer half of the ziti, followed by half of the cheese mixture. Repeat layers, finishing with the remaining meat sauce and topping with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: 520kcal
• Fat: 24g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 46g