What if I told you that one dish could capture the essence of comfort food in every bite? Imagine the aroma of savory ground beef mingling with melted cheese and rich tomato sauce wafting through your kitchen. Baked ziti with ground beef offers not just a meal but a nostalgic journey back to family gatherings and cozy evenings at home. It brings together layers of pasta, luscious sauce, and gooey cheese in a way that makes everyone feel warm inside.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, baked ziti with ground beef guarantees satisfaction. Get ready to dig into this hearty classic that promises to delight your taste buds and warm your heart.
Why You’ll Love This baked ziti with ground beef
Quick and Easy Preparation: This baked ziti recipe simplifies dinner-making by combining all ingredients in one dish. With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can have this mouthwatering meal ready for your family in less than an hour.
Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Enjoying a delicious home-cooked meal doesn’t have to break the bank. Most ingredients needed for baked ziti are affordable and often staples in your pantry. This recipe allows you to create an impressive dinner without overspending.
Customizable Flavor Profile: One of the best aspects of this dish is its adaptability. You can easily modify the recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or swapping out ground beef for turkey or sausage—making it perfect for any dietary preference.
Perfect Leftovers: Baked ziti tends to taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully. Prepare extra servings to enjoy quick lunches throughout the week or freeze portions for future meals without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Penne Pasta: Use about 1 pound of penne pasta; it’s ideal for holding onto sauce and cheese.
- Ground Beef: Approximately 1 pound of lean ground beef works best; it cooks evenly and adds rich flavor.
- Marinara Sauce: Choose about 4 cups of your favorite marinara sauce; homemade or store-bought both work well.
- Ricotta Cheese: About 15 ounces of ricotta adds creaminess; opt for whole milk ricotta for richer texture.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Use about 2 cups shredded mozzarella for that gooey top layer; fresh mozzarella can also be a great choice.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate about half a cup of Parmesan cheese; its sharpness adds depth to the flavor profile.
For the Seasoning:
- Garlic Powder: About 1 teaspoon provides aromatic flavor; fresh minced garlic can be used as an alternative.
- Dried Oregano: Use about 1 teaspoon; it complements Italian dishes wonderfully.
- Salt and Pepper: Adjust these according to taste; they enhance all dish flavors effectively.
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:
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures even cooking throughout your casserole.
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook about one pound of penne pasta until al dente (about eight minutes). Drain and set aside once cooked.
Sauté the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown one pound of lean ground beef until fully cooked (about six to eight minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary and stir in garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add Marinara Sauce: Pour approximately four cups of marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Mix thoroughly until heated through—allow it to simmer gently for about five minutes.
Layer Ingredients in Baking Dish: In a large baking dish, combine half the cooked penne pasta with half the meat sauce mixture. Add dollops of approximately fifteen ounces of ricotta cheese on top before sprinkling one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over everything.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Spread remaining penne pasta over everything followed by the rest of the meat sauce mixture. Finally, top off with another cup of shredded mozzarella along with half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for around thirty minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Transfer to plates and serve hot for ultimate enjoyment!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Always cook your pasta slightly underdone before baking since it will continue cooking in the oven. This prevents mushy noodles later on.
Add Fresh Herbs For Flavor: Incorporating fresh basil or parsley right before serving enhances presentation while adding vibrant flavor profiles that complement baked ziti perfectly.
Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing baked ziti to rest for about ten minutes after baking helps it set up nicely when cutting portions without falling apart immediately!
Freezing Portions For Later Use: If you have leftovers or want to make ahead meals, let them cool completely before freezing in airtight containers—great convenience when you’re pressed for time later!
Mistakes to avoid
Not Cooking the Pasta Correctly
One common mistake when making baked ziti with ground beef is not cooking the pasta properly. Many people overcook the pasta, which can lead to a mushy texture after baking. To avoid this, cook the ziti for only 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. This way, the pasta will finish cooking in the oven and maintain a desirable al dente texture. Keeping an eye on your pasta during boiling is essential, as it will absorb more moisture when combined with the sauce.
Using Low-Quality Ingredients
Quality ingredients make a significant difference in baked ziti with ground beef. Using low-grade cheese or canned sauces can result in a bland dish. Always opt for fresh mozzarella and high-quality marinara sauce to enhance flavor and texture. If possible, grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties, as they often contain anti-caking agents that alter melting properties. Investing in quality ingredients will elevate your baked ziti, making it a memorable meal.
Skipping Layering Techniques
Layering your baked ziti correctly is crucial for achieving balanced flavors and textures. A common mistake is simply mixing all ingredients together before baking, which can lead to uneven distribution of cheese and sauce. Instead, layer half of the cooked ziti in a baking dish, add half of the meat sauce, sprinkle cheese on top, and then repeat. This technique ensures that every bite has a delightful combination of flavors and textures rather than just one overwhelming component.
Not Letting It Rest
After removing your baked ziti with ground beef from the oven, resist the temptation to dive right in. Allowing it to rest for about 10-15 minutes is essential for optimal results. This time lets the layers settle and makes it easier to cut into squares without falling apart. If you skip this step, you may end up with a messy serving that doesn’t showcase all your hard work. Patience truly pays off when it comes to baked dishes like this one!
Serving Suggestions
This baked ziti with ground beef is versatile and pairs wonderfully with garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky flavor of the bread complements the rich, cheesy pasta perfectly. Serve it warm alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors. The freshness of the salad adds a delightful crunch that enhances your meal.
You can also enjoy this dish with a side of steamed vegetables. Broccoli or green beans add a healthy touch and vibrant color to your plate. The slight bitterness of the greens contrasts nicely with the savory baked ziti, making each bite satisfying.
Consider serving the baked ziti with a glass of red wine for an elevated dining experience. A medium-bodied red, such as Chianti or Merlot, enhances the flavors of the ground beef while cutting through the richness of the cheese. This pairing makes for a cozy dinner or special occasion meal.
For a family-friendly option, serve this baked ziti with a side of fruit salad. The sweetness from seasonal fruits offers a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty pasta dish, making it appealing to both kids and adults alike. You can even include yogurt as a dip for added creaminess.
FAQs
What type of cheese is best for baked ziti with ground beef?
Using mozzarella cheese is essential for that gooey, melty texture you desire in baked ziti with ground beef. You can also mix in ricotta and Parmesan for added flavor and creaminess. Combining these cheeses creates layers of taste that elevate your dish.
Can I make baked ziti with ground beef ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your baked ziti with ground beef a day in advance. Assemble all ingredients in your baking dish and cover it tightly. Store it in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.
How long should I bake my baked ziti with ground beef?
Bake your assembled dish at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes. This allows everything to heat through and gives the cheese on top time to melt and turn golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, especially if you’re using broiler settings at the end for extra browning.
Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?
Certainly! While this recipe features ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative. Additionally, Italian sausage offers wonderful spices that enhance flavor. Feel free to experiment based on your preferences!
Conclusion
In summary, baked ziti with ground beef is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Pairing options like garlic bread or salads enhance its appeal, while side dishes like fruit salad provide refreshing contrasts. Preparing this dish ahead saves time during busy days without sacrificing flavor or quality. Baking at 375°F allows for perfect texture and taste, making it suitable for various occasions from casual dinners to special celebrations. This recipe invites creativity; feel free to try different cheeses or meats to suit your family’s tastes! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Easy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Baked ziti with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food that delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. This delightful dish features layers of tender penne pasta enveloped in a rich marinara sauce, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and a blend of gooey cheeses. Ideal for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, you can whip up this hearty meal in under an hour. It’s not only budget-friendly but also highly customizable—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out the meat for a twist. Enjoy this cheesy, savory delight that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- garlic powder
- dried oregano
- salt
- pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (around 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef (about 6-8 minutes), then drain excess fat. Add garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Layer half of the cooked pasta in a baking dish followed by half of the meat sauce, dollops of ricotta cheese, and one cup of mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, mix fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. - Leftovers taste even better the next day; store in an airtight container. - You can freeze portions for later enjoyment.