Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta is a classic Italian-American dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any time you crave a hearty, cheesy pasta dish. The combination of ziti, savory ground beef, and creamy ricotta sauce makes for a delightful meal that everyone will love.
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Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta. First, it is simple to prepare and requires just a few ingredients. Second, it’s a crowd-pleaser! The cheesy, meaty flavors are satisfying, making it great for kids and adults alike. Plus, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Whether you want it spicier or loaded with vegetables, it’s a versatile dish that can fit any preference.
How to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta
Making Baked Ziti is straightforward and fun. Just follow the steps below to create this delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Ziti pasta
- 1 pound Ground beef
- 2 cups Marinara sauce
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese
- 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic together. Sauté until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, the beef and sauce mixture, ricotta cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients evenly.
- Pour this mixture into a 9 by 13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top, followed by the grated Parmesan.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the baked ziti cool slightly before serving. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired.
How to Serve Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta
Baked Ziti is best served warm. Simply scoop out portions onto plates or into bowls. You can serve it with a side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy this dish with family or friends for a cozy dining experience.
How to Store Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Baked Ziti can stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Just remember to let it cool completely before placing it in the freezer.
Tips to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta
- To save time, you can prepare the beef and sauce mixture a day ahead.
- For added flavors, consider adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- If you like a bit of spice, add crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
- Feel free to mix different types of cheese for variety, such as cheddar or provolone.
Variation
You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with roasted vegetables or plant-based ground meat. Additionally, you can use different pasta shapes like penne or fusilli for a fun twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Baked Ziti in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it well.
2. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
Absolutely! Using homemade marinara sauce adds a personal touch and enhances the flavor of the dish.
3. What can I serve with Baked Ziti?
Baked Ziti pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta with your loved ones! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta
Ingredients
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 pound Ziti pasta
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese
- 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese Divided
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese
Meat and Sauce
- 1 pound Ground beef
- 2 cups Marinara sauce
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic together until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Assembly
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, the beef and sauce mixture, ricotta cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients evenly.
- Pour this mixture into a 9 by 13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top, followed by the grated Parmesan.
Baking
- Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the baked ziti cool slightly before serving. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired.
