Baked Ziti With Ground Beef
A comforting dish with layers of creamy cheese, savory ground beef, and tender pasta, perfect for family gatherings and cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta cooked to al dente
- 1 pound ground beef juicy, adds hearty flavor
- 1 jar marinara sauce 24 oz, rich sauce
- 1 can ricotta cheese 15 oz, creamy and essential for layering
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese melts to a golden perfection
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese adds a delightful sharpness
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste salt and pepper
Optional Garnish
- to taste fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add the marinara sauce to the cooked beef and stir. Simmer for about 5 minutes until combined.
Assembly
- In a large bowl, combine the ziti pasta with the beef and marinara mixture, along with the ricotta cheese, ensuring everything is coated evenly.
- Transfer half of the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top, then layer on the remaining ziti mixture, followed by the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
Baking
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
To enhance flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the ground beef as it cooks. For a creamier texture, mix in additional ricotta or cream cheese. Great served with a simple green salad or garlic bread.