Baked Ziti With Ground Beef
This baked ziti with ground beef is a classic Italian-American dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. With layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, this recipe promises to deliver delicious flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 3 cups ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 400 calories, 25g of protein, 20g of fat, 35g of carbohydrates, and 4g of fiber. This nutritional information is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
4. Add marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the beef; simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
6. Layer half of the pasta mixture in a greased baking dish.
7. Spread half of the beef sauce over the pasta.
8. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta and beef sauce.
9. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version. For a vegetarian dish, replace the beef with sautéed vegetables or a meat substitute.
Serving and Pairings
Baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. A glass of red wine also complements the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. Baked ziti can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy; cook until al dente.
- Not draining excess fat from the beef can make the dish greasy.
- Skipping the layering can lead to uneven cooking.
- Using low-quality cheese can affect the flavor; opt for good-quality cheeses.
- Not covering the dish while baking may lead to dried-out cheese.
Helpful Tips
- Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving for better slicing.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique tastes.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
FAQs
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare baked ziti a day in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it right before serving.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
You can substitute cottage cheese or cream cheese for ricotta, or simply omit it for a lighter version.
How do I make it vegetarian?
To make baked ziti vegetarian, replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables, mushrooms, or a meat alternative.
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Absolutely! Baked ziti freezes well. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw before baking.
How do I know when it’s done?
Baked ziti is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, usually after about 30 minutes in the oven.
Conclusion
Baked ziti with ground beef is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any dinner table. Its cheesy goodness and hearty meat sauce make it a favorite among families. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated, this recipe will surely become a go-to in your meal rotation.
Baked Ziti With Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cups ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
- Add marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the beef; simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Layer half of the pasta mixture in a greased baking dish.
- Spread half of the beef sauce over the pasta.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta and beef sauce.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
