Have you ever craved a dish that combines comforting flavors, hearty textures, and an irresistible aroma? Look no further than baked ziti with ground beef! This delightful Italian-American classic offers layers of gooey cheese, savory meat sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta that will make your taste buds dance. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with warmth and joy as it bakes to perfection in the oven.
Baked ziti is not only a family favorite but also perfect for gatherings or busy weeknights. With its simple preparation and minimal ingredients, you can whip up this satisfying dish in no time. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe promises to deliver an unforgettable flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to indulge in a melty masterpiece that brings comfort and happiness to your table!
Why You’ll Love This baked ziti with ground beef
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and tangy marinara sauce creates a warm hug in every bite.
- Feed a Crowd: This dish serves multiple people generously, making it an ideal option for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients for baked ziti with ground beef
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ziti Pasta: This tubular pasta shape holds onto the sauce and cheese beautifully; feel free to substitute with penne if desired.
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthy option; it adds flavor and protein to the dish.
- Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought version or make your own for a fresh taste.
- Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta adds richness; you can mix in some herbs for extra flavor if desired.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This is essential for topping off the dish; choose whole milk mozzarella for best melting results.
For the Sauce:
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor; chop finely before adding to the meat mixture.
- Dried Oregano: This herb adds depth; sprinkle it into the meat sauce while cooking for maximum flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make baked ziti with ground beef
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish or casserole pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef along with chopped garlic cloves. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Stir in marinara sauce and dried oregano into the cooked ground beef. Let it simmer on low heat for about five minutes until heated through.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, half of shredded mozzarella cheese, and half of the meat sauce. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Bake
Transfer half of the pasta mixture into your greased baking dish. Layer remaining meat sauce on top followed by another layer of pasta mix. Finally, sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Transfer to plates and enjoy this comforting meal hot from the oven!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheeses like parmesan or provolone for added flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms into your meat sauce for extra nutrition.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate before baking; simply increase baking time by about ten minutes if cooking from cold.
Mistakes to avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: One common mistake when making baked ziti with ground beef is overcooking the pasta. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook in the oven. Cook it for a few minutes less than the package instructions suggest. Aim for al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. This prevents mushy noodles and ensures that your dish has a perfect texture after baking.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Quality matters in baked ziti with ground beef. Using low-quality cheese or canned sauce can significantly affect flavor. Opt for fresh mozzarella and a good quality marinara or homemade sauce if possible. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste and make your dish more enjoyable.
- Neglecting Layering: Proper layering is crucial for a balanced baked ziti with ground beef. Start with a layer of sauce, followed by pasta, cheese, and ground beef, then repeat. Neglecting this can result in uneven distribution of flavors and textures. Each bite should have a mix of all ingredients to ensure maximum satisfaction.
Serving Suggestions
This baked ziti with ground beef is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crispy garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious marinara sauce. It’s a classic addition that complements the flavors of the baked ziti perfectly.
- Caesar Salad: A refreshing Caesar salad adds a crunchy texture and lightness to your meal. The creamy dressing balances the richness of the baked ziti with ground beef.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans provide a nutritional boost and vibrant color to your plate. Their mild flavors enhance the overall dining experience without overpowering the main dish.
FAQs
What makes baked ziti with ground beef unique?
Baked ziti with ground beef stands out because of its hearty ingredients and comforting taste. The combination of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and seasoned beef creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family gatherings. The layers of cheese add creaminess, while herbs enhance the flavor profile. This dish is not only filling but also easy to prepare, making it a favorite among home cooks.
Can I make baked ziti with ground beef ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare baked ziti in advance. Simply assemble all the ingredients in a baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just bake it until heated through and bubbly. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or when hosting guests.
What types of cheese should I use in baked ziti with ground beef?
For a delicious baked ziti with ground beef, use a mix of cheeses for optimal flavor. Mozzarella cheese offers gooey texture when melted, while ricotta adds creaminess. Parmesan cheese brings a savory depth that enhances every bite. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for added richness.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of baked ziti?
Yes, you can easily create a vegetarian version of baked ziti by substituting ground beef with sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also use lentils or plant-based meat alternatives for added protein. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged, allowing you to enjoy this classic dish without meat while still retaining its comforting essence.
Conclusion for baked ziti with ground beef
In conclusion, baked ziti with ground beef is a delightful comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Its rich flavors and cheesy goodness make it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. By incorporating simple ingredients like pasta, marinara sauce, and seasoned beef, you create a dish that everyone will love. Whether served alongside garlic bread or a fresh salad, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Don’t hesitate to prepare it ahead of time for convenience without compromising on taste!
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Baked ziti with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures in every bite. This hearty Italian-American classic features layers of tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a medley of gooey cheeses baked to perfection. In just 30 minutes, you can create a delightful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With its easy preparation and minimal ingredients, baked ziti promises to be a hit whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in. Serve it alongside garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- Ziti pasta
- Ground beef
- Marinara sauce
- Ricotta cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Garlic cloves
- Dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Cook ziti in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
- In a skillet, brown ground beef with chopped garlic; drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce and oregano, simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine cooked pasta, ricotta, half of the mozzarella, and half of the meat sauce in a bowl.
- Layer half the pasta mixture in the baking dish, top with remaining meat sauce, then layer the rest of the pasta mix and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 468
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
