Ground Beef Baked Ziti

Name: Ground Beef Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 12 oz ziti pasta; 24 oz marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Ground beef baked ziti is a comforting and delicious pasta dish that combines seasoned ground beef, ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection.

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2025-12-25T17:58:03.606Z

Ground beef baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The layers of pasta, meat, and cheese create a hearty meal that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for a crowd
Rich flavors from seasoned beef and marinara
Cheesy goodness with every bite

      

The Comfort of Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a beloved classic that brings warmth to any table. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in. The combination of pasta, savory ground beef, and rich marinara sauce creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it's easy to prepare and can be made in advance, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

One of the many reasons baked ziti stands out is its versatility. You can easily incorporate vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost nutrition and add flavor. Additionally, you can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even make it vegetarian by using plant-based meat alternatives. The possibilities are endless!

Perfect for Meal Prep

Baked ziti is an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts. You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply pop it in the oven for a quick and satisfying meal. This makes it a fantastic option for busy individuals or families looking to save time during the week.

To freeze baked ziti, assemble the dish as directed but skip the baking step. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in your freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This way, you can enjoy homemade baked ziti without the hassle of cooking from scratch every time!

Pairing Suggestions

To complement your delicious ground beef baked ziti, consider serving it with a side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. Alternatively, garlic bread or breadsticks are perfect accompaniments for scooping up any leftover sauce. These sides not only enhance the meal but also add to the overall dining experience.

For beverages, a nice red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, pairs beautifully with the flavors of baked ziti. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshing iced tea can also be delightful choices. Whatever you choose, these pairings will elevate your baked ziti experience!

Ingredients

For the Baked Ziti

1 lb ground beef
12 oz ziti pasta
24 oz marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking until fragrant. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well until combined.

Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Baked Ziti

To ensure your baked ziti turns out perfectly, don't overcook the pasta. Cooking it al dente allows the pasta to absorb some of the sauce during baking, preventing it from becoming mushy. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses; using a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and fontina can add a unique flavor profile and enhance the creaminess of the dish.

Layering the ingredients is another tip to consider. Start with a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking, followed by the pasta mixture and then the cheeses. This method creates a delightful texture and ensures an even melt.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the baked ziti fresh, make sure it is properly cooled before sealing. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to retain moisture and prevent the cheese from burning. Heat it at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.

For longer storage, baked ziti can be frozen for up to three months. When freezing, portion out individual servings for easy reheating. This way, you can enjoy a homemade meal any night of the week with minimal effort!

Serving Suggestions

When serving baked ziti, consider garnishing it with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a delightful kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Presenting the dish in a beautiful baking dish or individual ramekins can elevate the dining experience and impress your guests.

Don't forget to provide a generous amount of extra marinara sauce on the side for those who love saucy pasta. Offering a variety of toppings, such as additional cheese or chopped olives, can also make the meal more interactive and enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! Baked ziti can be frozen before baking or after. Just make sure to cover it well.

→ What can I serve with baked ziti?

Garlic bread and a side salad pair wonderfully with baked ziti.