Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked ziti is a crowd-pleaser, blending classic Italian flavors into one mouthwatering dish. The ground beef adds a savory richness, while the ricotta brings creaminess and depth. The tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese tie everything together, creating a meal that’s both filling and flavorful. It’s also incredibly easy to make, meaning you can whip it up on a busy night and have a delicious dinner ready in no time.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste (Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth.
7. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce. Add a layer of cooked pasta, then top with a layer of the ricotta mixture. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top.
8. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Let the baked ziti rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 6-8 people and takes around 40-45 minutes to prepare and cook.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for a mix of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or any other vegetables you enjoy.
• Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a bit of heat.
• Cheese Lovers: Increase the amount of mozzarella or add other cheeses like provolone or gouda for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of ziti?

Yes, you can substitute ziti with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni.

Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes, you can freeze it! After assembling, cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make the dish dairy-free, use a dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella cheese alternative. You can also substitute the Parmesan with a plant-based version.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming soggy?

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Don’t overcook it before baking!

Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Yes, homemade marinara sauce will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned to enhance the flavors of the dish.

Can I add more meat to this recipe?

Yes, you can add extra ground beef or use a mix of ground beef and pork for a richer flavor.

Can I make this recipe without ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or mascarpone cheese for a similar creamy texture.

How long should I let the baked ziti rest before serving?

Allow the baked ziti to rest for at least 5-10 minutes before serving so that the layers set and it’s easier to serve.

What can I serve with baked ziti?

Serve baked ziti with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta is the perfect dish to bring comfort and flavor to your dinner table. With its savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty cheese, this hearty casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just your immediate family, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to make. Enjoy the delicious layers of flavor and the joy of sharing a homemade meal!

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe

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• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings

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Description

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta is a delicious, comforting Italian dish perfect for family dinners. This hearty casserole features ziti pasta, savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella cheese. With a rich marinara sauce and savory seasonings, this dish offers a satisfying, flavorful meal that will become a family favorite. Easy to make and full of flavor, this recipe is perfect for weeknights or any occasion.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
• Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
• Stir in marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
• In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese with half the mozzarella and the Parmesan. Stir until smooth.
• In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Add a layer of cooked pasta, then top with the ricotta mixture. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of meat sauce.
• Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
• Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
• Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

• For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian