Irresistible Baked Ziti with Ground Beef Recipe Delight

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is like a warm hug on a plate, bursting with cheesy goodness and zesty flavors. Picture this: layers of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich marinara sauce bubbling under a golden crust of melted cheese. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like an invitation to dive into comfort food heaven.

Now, let’s be real—this dish isn’t just for Sunday dinners or family gatherings. It’s perfect for those cozy weeknights when all you want is something hearty to fill your belly and warm your soul. I remember making Baked Ziti with Ground Beef for the first time in college; my roommates declared me a culinary wizard, and suddenly I was the go-to chef for every movie night. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll understand why it holds a special place in so many hearts (and stomachs).

Ingredients for Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ziti Pasta: You can use ziti or penne. Choose the kind that best absorbs all that cheesy goodness.

• Ground Beef: Look for lean ground beef; it provides great flavor without being overly greasy.

• Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce or make homemade if you’re feeling ambitious.

• Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness and balances the flavors perfectly.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Buy fresh mozzarella if possible; it melts beautifully and gives that gooey texture we crave.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan brings a nutty flavor that elevates the dish.

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme adds depth to your sauce.

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 Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure everything bakes evenly while you’re busy assembling your masterpiece.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the ziti pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked—about 5-7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break up any clumps because no one wants meatballs in their ziti.

Step 4: Mix in Sauce and Spices

Add the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the browned beef in the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for about five minutes so all those wonderful flavors meld together.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with ricotta cheese until well combined. Then fold in half of the meat-sauce mixture gently—don’t go crazy here; you want those layers!

Step 6: Layer It Up

In a greased baking dish, start layering! First spread half of the pasta mixture, then add half of the remaining meat sauce on top. Sprinkle some mozzarella cheese before repeating layers until everything ends up beautifully stacked.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra marinara sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

There you have it! Your delightful Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is ready to steal the show at dinner tonight. Whether it’s family night or game day, this recipe promises smiles all around—and maybe even some spontaneous dance moves from those who can’t resist diving into that cheesy goodness!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet until it’s nicely caramelized. While that’s happening, cook the pasta until al dente and prepare your marinara sauce. Combine everything in a baking dish for optimal cheesy goodness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can also toss in some sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra cheese on top!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until hot throughout, or microwave individual portions for quick meals.

I remember the first time I made this Baked Ziti with Ground Beef for my friends; they practically licked their plates clean! Their enthusiastic feedback still warms my heart and keeps me coming back to this recipe.

FAQs :

What is Baked Ziti with Ground Beef?

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a classic Italian-American dish that features ziti pasta, ground beef, marinara sauce, and cheese. The dish is layered and baked until bubbly, creating a comforting meal perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. This hearty recipe combines the flavors of savory beef with melty cheese, making it a favorite among many.

How do I store leftovers of Baked Ziti with Ground Beef?

To store leftovers of Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, allow the dish to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. You can also freeze the baked ziti by placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will maintain its quality for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. For more inspiration, check out this more main dish recipes recipe.

Can I make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Baked Ziti with Ground Beef ahead of time. Assemble the dish without baking it and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to freeze it, do so after assembling but before cooking. Just remember to allow extra baking time if you cook it straight from the freezer. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips and techniques recipe.

What are some variations of Baked Ziti with Ground Beef?

There are several delicious variations of Baked Ziti with Ground Beef. You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition. For a spicy kick, include Italian sausage or red pepper flakes. Additionally, try using different types of cheese such as ricotta or mozzarella blends to enhance flavor and texture.

Conclusion for Baked Ziti with Ground Beef :

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a delightful dish that combines hearty ingredients into one satisfying meal. With layers of ziti pasta, flavorful ground beef, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s perfect for any occasion. Leftovers are easy to store or reheat for later enjoyment. Whether you prepare this dish ahead of time or customize it with your favorite ingredients, Baked Ziti will surely become a family favorite!

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Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a heartwarming dish that combines layers of tender ziti pasta, savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this comforting meal is easy to prepare and sure to impress. With its bubbly top and irresistible flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Enjoy it fresh from the oven or as delicious leftovers for a quick meal.

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Ingredients

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• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; let simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a bowl, combine cooked pasta with ricotta cheese; gently mix in half of the meat-sauce mixture.
6. Layer half of the pasta mixture in a greased baking dish, followed by half of the remaining meat sauce and some mozzarella cheese. Repeat layering.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 200g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 80mg