Ever craved a dish that wraps you in warmth like a cozy blanket?

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is that dish! This one-pan wonder combines layers of cheesy goodness, hearty meat, and rich marinara sauce to create a comforting meal that’ll make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying. 🍝

Why make this recipe

You’re going to love this dish for several reasons. First off, it’s family-friendly—everyone from toddlers to grandparents can’t resist a plateful. Second, it’s a serious crowd-pleaser; perfect for those nights when unexpected guests drop by. Third, there’s barely any cleanup necessary—who wants to scrub pot after pot after dinner, am I right? 😂

Ingredients:

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

12 oz ziti pasta
1 lb lean ground beef
3 cups marinara sauce
15 oz ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt to taste
Fresh basil (optional)

Directions:

Let’s get this comfort food masterpiece into the oven! Follow these simple steps:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook ziti in salted boiling water until al dente; then drain.
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
In a bowl, combine the cooked ziti with ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Layer half of the pasta mixture in a greased baking dish, top with half of the meat sauce, and repeat the layers.
Finish with the remaining meat sauce, then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

How to make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef (Overview)

Picture this: you cook the ziti, brown the beef, and toss everything together like you’re a master chef in a cooking show. Layer up those ingredients like you’re building a culinary skyscraper, and then let the oven work its magic. Pro tip: Don’t skip the foil during the first half of baking! It keeps everything juicy before adding that golden, cheesy crust. 🍽️

How to serve Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Ready to dish it up? Serve your Baked Ziti hot from the oven, garnished with fresh basil for a pop of color. The melted mozzarella will stretch like a deliciously cheesy dream, while the rich smell will wrap around your kitchen like a hug. Pair it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a meal that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty!

How to store Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This yummy dish will last in the fridge for about 3-5 days. Just keep it in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—but let’s be honest, it probably won’t last that long! Reheat in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-oven vibe or pop it in the microwave for a speedy meal.

Tips to make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Add veggies! Throw in some spinach or mushrooms for an extra nutrient boost and flavor.
Use ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option.
Want extra creaminess? Mix in some cream cheese with the ricotta. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
If you’re pressed for time, store-bought sauce works just as well—don’t sweat the small stuff!
Sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving for a little extra kick. 😉

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Try swapping out ground beef for Italian sausage for a spicy twist. Or, go vegan with lentils and cashew cheese instead of ricotta. The possibilities are endless! 🌱

FAQs

Can I prepare Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble everything, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

Can I freeze Baked Ziti?
Yes! It freezes beautifully. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before placing it in a freezer-safe container.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
Cream cheese or cottage cheese can work as great alternatives. You can even get creative with vegan options like tofu blended with nutritional yeast!

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!