Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a classic Italian-American dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. This dish features ziti pasta coated in a savory meat sauce and blended with rich cheeses, all baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a hearty meal perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in. The combination of flavors is sure to please, making it a go-to recipe that many love to prepare and share.
Why Make This Recipe
There are several reasons to make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. The process involves simple steps, and most of the ingredients are readily available in any grocery store. Secondly, this dish is versatile. You can customize it with different cheeses or add vegetables to suit your family’s tastes. Lastly, the comforting, cheesy blend of pasta and meaty sauce warms the soul, making it a beloved option for any dinner occasion. It also makes for great leftovers, as the flavors only improve after a day in the fridge.
How to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
Creating this delicious Baked Ziti is straightforward and gratifying. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a satisfying meal that the whole family can enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb dry ziti pasta
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- Two 26-ounce jars of spaghetti sauce
- 6 oz sliced provolone cheese
- 1.5 cups of sour cream
- 6 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering all necessary ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. This includes chopping the onion and measuring out the spaghetti sauce. Having everything ready will help you move efficiently through the recipe.
Cook the Pasta
Boil your ziti in salted water until just al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to prevent further cooking. This step is crucial as it ensures the ziti holds its shape during baking.
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, add a bit of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, mix in the chopped onions and continue to sauté until they become soft and aromatic.
Prepare the Sauce
To the skillet, add the spaghetti sauce. Stir in dried basil and oregano for added flavor. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes, letting the sauce thicken and the flavors meld together. The aroma will be delightful!
Layer the Dish
In a greased baking dish, start layering the ingredients. First, spread half of the cooked ziti in the baking dish. Then, add a layer of provolone cheese. Follow this with a generous spread of sour cream to add creaminess and richness. Next, pour half of the meat sauce over the sour cream layer.
Build the Remaining Layers
Now, add the remaining ziti on top of the sauce. Sprinkle a good amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over it, ensuring it covers the pasta. Finish by pouring the rest of the meat sauce over the top. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy topping.
Bake Until Perfect
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your assembled ziti in the oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until it is bubbly and golden on top. The cheese should melt into a deliciously gooey crust.
How to Serve Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
Once baked, let the Baked Ziti rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set a bit. Cut into squares to serve and enjoy it hot. Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top can make for an appealing presentation.
How to Store Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
If you have leftovers, storing Baked Ziti is easy. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. Leftovers will stay fresh for up to three days. You can also freeze the dish for up to three months. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will bake in the oven, cook it slightly less than you typically would.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Using good pasta, cheese, and sauce can elevate the entire dish.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit after baking will make serving easier and prevent it from falling apart.
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your preferences. Adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat can be a nice touch!
Variations
Baked Ziti is versatile, and you can easily modify it to suit your preferences.
- Vegetable Additions: Consider adding cooked spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Different Meats: Ground turkey or sausage can be used instead of beef for a different taste.
- Cheese Manifestations: You can mix different cheeses, like ricotta or cheddar, for added creaminess and flavor variations.
FAQs
Can I prepare Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the Baked Ziti a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze Baked Ziti?
Absolutely. You can freeze Baked Ziti either before baking or after it has been baked. Just be sure to use airtight containers or wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
What if I don’t have ziti pasta?
If you don’t have ziti pasta, you can substitute it with other types of pasta such as penne or shell pasta. Just ensure that whatever pasta you choose is sturdy enough for baking.
How do I know when the Baked Ziti is ready?
The Baked Ziti is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown. You can also insert a knife into the center to check that it’s heated through.
In conclusion, Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a delicious and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe can quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful meal!
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Large Pot
- 9×13 inch baking dish
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 24 oz marinara sauce or your favorite pasta sauce
- 12 oz ziti pasta uncooked
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- optional fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with olive oil.
- Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in marinara sauce. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, and half the meat sauce. Mix well.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving if desired.
