Ground Beef Baked Ziti
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Ground beef baked ziti is a comforting and hearty dish that combines al dente pasta with savory ground beef and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheese.
This Ground Beef Baked Ziti is a family favorite that never fails to please. With its layers of cheesy goodness and flavorful ground beef, it's perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and hearty flavors that satisfy every craving
- Easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Loaded with gooey cheese and comforting pasta
The Perfect Comfort Food
Ground beef baked ziti is more than just a meal; it's a true comfort food that warms both the body and the soul. The combination of perfectly cooked ziti pasta, savory ground beef, and rich marinara sauce creates a dish that is satisfying and fulfilling. Every bite is a delightful experience, packed with flavors that remind you of family gatherings and cozy evenings at home.
This dish is particularly appealing during colder months when you crave something hearty. The gooey melted cheese on top adds a layer of creaminess that elevates the dish, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. It's an ideal choice for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping for the week ahead.
Easy Weeknight Meal
One of the best aspects of ground beef baked ziti is its simplicity. With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. You can have a wholesome and delicious meal on the table in under an hour, allowing you to spend more quality time with your loved ones.
By using common pantry staples like marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, you can easily whip up this dish without a lengthy shopping list. Whether you're an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be approachable and stress-free.
Versatile and Customizable
Another reason to love baked ziti is its versatility. While this recipe features ground beef, you can easily swap it out for ground turkey, sausage, or even a meatless option with lentils or mushrooms. The marinara sauce can also be adjusted to suit your taste, whether you prefer a spicier kick or a sweeter flavor.
Additionally, feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, to add more nutrition and flavor. This adaptability makes baked ziti a fantastic choice for varying diets and preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy a hearty 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
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 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 little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
Assemble the Baked Ziti
In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and beef mixture. Mix in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Top with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Baked Ziti with a side salad or garlic bread!
Serving Suggestions
To complement your ground beef baked ziti, consider serving a crisp green salad or garlic bread on the side. A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the ziti. Garlic bread, on the other hand, is perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce left on your plate.
For a touch of elegance, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the baked ziti just before serving. This not only adds a beautiful pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor profile, making it look and taste even more appetizing.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! Ground beef baked ziti stores well and makes for a delicious meal the next day. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to three months.
When reheating, you can use the microwave for quick meals or the oven for a more evenly heated dish. If using the oven, cover the ziti with foil to prevent it from drying out, and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Nutritional Information
Ground beef baked ziti is not just delicious but can also be a nutritious meal option when prepared thoughtfully. The combination of pasta, protein, and tomato sauce provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and essential vitamins. However, be mindful of portion sizes and choose lean ground beef to keep the meal healthier.
To further enhance the nutritional value, consider incorporating more vegetables into the dish or serving it alongside a vegetable-packed salad. This way, you can enjoy a hearty meal while also meeting your daily vegetable intake.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute ziti with penne, rigatoni, or any pasta you prefer.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the baked ziti a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
→ Is it possible to freeze baked ziti?
Yes, baked ziti freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping and storing it in the freezer.
→ What can I serve with baked ziti?
Baked ziti pairs well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
Ground Beef Baked Ziti
Ground beef baked ziti is a comforting and hearty dish that combines al dente pasta with savory ground beef and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheese.
Created by: Madeline Archer
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Baked Ziti
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and beef mixture. Mix in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Top with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 46g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 28g