When you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal, baked ziti with ground beef is one of those dishes that always hits the spot. It’s packed with rich tomato sauce, savory beef, and gooey melted cheese that makes every bite satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is simple to make and sure to please everyone at the table.
You’ll find that baked ziti is a versatile dish that combines easy pantry ingredients with minimal effort, delivering maximum flavor. Once you master this recipe, it might just become your go-to comfort food on busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients you likely have on hand
- Rich, cheesy, and satisfying comfort food
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping
- Easy to customize with your favorite cheeses or veggies
- Reheats well, maintaining flavor and texture
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create a delicious baked ziti with ground beef that’s full of flavor and texture.
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories (approx.): 480 per serving
How to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Pour in the marinara sauce, season with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese. Stir gently to mix everything evenly.
- Transfer half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella and half the Parmesan. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, then finish with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the baked ziti cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it will finish cooking in the oven and stay perfectly tender.
- Use whole milk ricotta for creamier texture and richer flavor.
- For extra flavor, add a handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil into the ricotta mixture.
- Let the baked ziti rest after baking to allow the sauce to thicken and make serving easier.
- Try mixing in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a veggie boost.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven until heated through.
This dish freezes well, too. Freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to preserve the creamy texture and flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative. Just be sure to brown it thoroughly and adjust seasoning to taste since turkey is milder in flavor.
Do I have to boil the pasta before baking?
Yes, boiling the pasta until al dente prevents it from becoming mushy in the oven and ensures even cooking throughout the dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to keep it hearty and flavorful.
What cheese is best for baked ziti?
Mozzarella is essential for its meltiness, while ricotta adds creaminess and Parmesan brings a savory depth. Combining these cheeses gives the classic baked ziti texture and taste.