Delicious Baked Ziti with Ground Beef Recipe – Easy and Comforting!

There’s something magical about gathering around the table to enjoy a warm, hearty meal that fills both your stomach and your soul. Delicious baked ziti with ground beef is one of those recipes that hits all the right notes. It’s easy to make, full of comforting flavors, and perfect for feeding your family or a crowd of friends.

This baked ziti recipe brings together tender pasta, savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and layers of creamy cheese. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this guide will walk you through creating the ultimate baked ziti.

Ingredients for Delicious Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Here’s everything you need for this recipe, broken down for convenience:

Ingredient	Amount
Ziti pasta	1 pound (450g)
Ground beef	1 pound (450g)
Marinara sauce	1 jar (24 oz)
Ricotta cheese	1 can (15 oz)
Shredded mozzarella cheese	2 cups
Grated Parmesan cheese	1/2 cup
Italian seasoning	1 teaspoon
Garlic powder	1/2 teaspoon
Salt and pepper	To taste
Fresh basil or parsley (optional)	For garnish

Why Baked Ziti Is the Ultimate Comfort Food

You’ll love this baked ziti recipe for so many reasons:

1. Quick and Easy: It’s simple enough for weeknights but hearty enough for special occasions.
2. Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist the cheesy, savory goodness.
3. Make-Ahead Meal: You can prep it in advance and bake it when you’re ready.
4. Versatile: Add your favorite veggies, change the cheese, or swap ground beef for sausage.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Baked Ziti

1. Boil the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This ensures the pasta doesn’t get mushy when baked.
• Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

• Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef.
• Break the beef into small pieces as it cooks, and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
• Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, then drain any excess fat.

3. Add the Marinara Sauce

• Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked beef.
• Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes. This deepens the flavor and creates a rich, hearty sauce.

4. Prepare the Ricotta Cheese Mixture

• In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper.
• Mix until smooth and creamy. This layer will add a luscious texture to your baked ziti.

5. Layer the Dish

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
• Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
• Add half of the cooked ziti pasta in an even layer.
• Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta and spread gently.
• Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
• Repeat the layers: sauce, pasta, ricotta, and mozzarella.

6. Top with Cheese

• Finish with the remaining sauce, then sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

7. Bake to Perfection

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Garnish and Serve

• Let the baked ziti cool for 5 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant finishing touch.

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Ziti

1. Cook Pasta Just Right

• Cooking pasta to al dente is key. Overcooked pasta can become mushy during baking.

2. Use Fresh Cheese

• Grate your own mozzarella and Parmesan for maximum flavor and meltability.

3. Customize Your Ziti

• Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Prefer a spicy kick? Use hot Italian sausage instead of ground beef.

4. Let It Rest

• Allow the ziti to rest after baking. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	470
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	20g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	820mg

Variations to Try

1. Vegetarian Baked Ziti

• Skip the ground beef and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, and spinach.

2. Spicy Baked Ziti

• Add red pepper flakes or use spicy marinara sauce for an extra kick.

3. Gluten-Free Option

• Swap regular ziti for gluten-free pasta and ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free.

4. Extra-Cheesy Ziti

• Double the mozzarella and Parmesan for an indulgently cheesy version.

5. Meat Lovers’ Ziti

• Combine ground beef with Italian sausage or diced pancetta for extra richness.

FAQs About Delicious Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

1. Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed.

2. Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! Wrap the assembled dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

3. What can I serve with baked ziti?

Pair it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

4. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through.

5. Can I substitute ricotta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of ricotta, cottage cheese or cream cheese can be used as a substitute.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Why You Should Make This Recipe Tonight

With its tender pasta, flavorful meat sauce, and creamy cheese layers, delicious baked ziti with ground beef is a meal that everyone will adore. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy Sunday dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver comfort and joy.

So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and bring the magic of baked ziti to your kitchen. Your family and friends will thank you for it!

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