Description
This baked ziti with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender pasta, savory beef, rich marinara, and creamy layers of cheese. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) ziti pasta
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook ziti pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook until beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Prepare the Sauce
- Add marinara sauce to the skillet with the cooked beef.
- Stir well and let simmer for 5-7 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Mix the Ricotta Cheese Layer
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Layer the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
- Add half of the cooked pasta in an even layer.
- Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta and spread gently.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers: meat sauce, pasta, ricotta, and mozzarella.
- Add the Final Cheese Layer
- Top with remaining meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the Ziti
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve
- Let the baked ziti cool for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan for better flavor and melting.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a nutritious twist.
- For a spicy version, include red pepper flakes or use spicy marinara sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-American