Ultimate Ground Beef Baked Ziti Recipe for Dinner

Craving Ultimate Comfort? Meet the Ground Beef Baked Ziti!

Are you searching for a truly satisfying, crowd-pleasing dinner that promises a warm hug in every bite? In a world where weeknight meals can often feel like a chore, the desire for comfort food that is both delicious and relatively easy to prepare is ever-growing. This Ground Beef Baked Ziti recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine tender pasta, a rich, savory meat sauce, and a glorious blanket of melted cheese, all baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of dish that transforms ordinary evenings into memorable family gatherings, proving that simple ingredients, when combined with a little love and the right technique, can create something truly extraordinary. If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game with a classic that never disappoints, you’ve come to the right place!

What Makes This Ground Beef Baked Ziti So Ultimate?

The magic of this baked ziti lies in the thoughtful assembly of high-quality ingredients that work in harmony to create layers of irresistible flavor and texture. We’re not just making pasta with meat sauce; we’re crafting an experience!

Pasta & Sauce Base

• Ziti Pasta (1 pound): The star of the show! We love ziti for its tubular shape that holds sauce beautifully, but rigatoni or penne also work wonderfully. Cook it just shy of al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Crushed Tomatoes (28 oz can): A high-quality crushed tomato provides the rich, slightly acidic foundation for our sauce. Look for brands with minimal added sugar.
• Tomato Paste (6 oz can): This concentrated powerhouse adds incredible depth of flavor and a beautiful glossy texture to the sauce.
• Beef Broth (1/2 cup): For simmering the sauce, adding moisture and a savory undertone. Use low-sodium if you prefer to control the saltiness.
• Water (1/4 cup): To help achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
• Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): Essential for that classic Italian herb aroma and flavor.
• Dried Basil (1 teaspoon): Complements the oregano beautifully, adding a subtle sweetness.
• Sugar (1 teaspoon, optional): A touch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing the overall sweetness of the sauce.

Hearty Ground Beef

• Ground Beef (1.5 pounds): We recommend an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and texture. The fat renders down, creating a richer sauce. If you prefer leaner, 90/10 is fine, but you might want to add a touch more olive oil.

Cheesy Goodness

• Ricotta Cheese (15 oz container): The creamy, slightly sweet heart of the cheesy layer. Full-fat ricotta provides the best richness.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, divided): For that glorious, melty, stretchy cheese pull. We’ll use some in the ricotta mixture and some for topping.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a sharp, nutty, salty kick that elevates the entire dish.
• Large Egg (1): Acts as a binder for the ricotta mixture, ensuring a cohesive and creamy layer.

Aromatics & Seasonings

• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the aromatics. Extra virgin for the best flavor.
• Yellow Onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Provides a sweet, aromatic base.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Essential for that garlicky punch that Italian cooking is famous for.
• Salt (1 teaspoon, plus more for pasta water): To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
• Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Freshly ground for a bit of warmth.
• Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a hint of subtle heat that cuts through the richness.

Timing is Everything: How Long Will It Take?

Compared to many baked ziti recipes that can take over 2 hours from start to finish, this version is optimized for flavor without excessive time commitment. The prep focuses on efficient layering of flavors, and the cook time is a perfect balance for achieving a fully heated, bubbly casserole without overcooking the pasta.

Crafting Your Ultimate Ground Beef Baked Ziti: Step-by-Step

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is designed to be straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying your ultimate baked ziti in no time.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Al Dente Perfection

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your ziti pasta and cook according to package directions, but subtract 2 minutes from the recommended time. You want the pasta to be very firm, or “al dente,” as it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain the pasta well and set aside. Don’t rinse it; the starch helps the sauce cling better.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Build Flavor

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned thoroughly. Drain off any excess grease, leaving a little behind for flavor.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce for Depth

Stir the tomato paste into the browned beef and onion mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes until it darkens slightly, intensifying its flavor. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and water. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. If using, stir in the sugar. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for at least 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken beautifully.

Step 4: Combine and Layer for Baking Bliss

While the sauce simmers, prepare the ricotta mixture. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella, the grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy. Once the sauce has simmered, taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Add the drained, undercooked ziti to the sauce and stir gently to coat. Pour half of this ziti and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Next, spoon the ricotta mixture evenly over the ziti layer. You can dollop it on, rather than spreading smoothly, for pockets of creamy goodness. Finally, top with the remaining ziti and sauce mixture, spreading it to cover the ricotta layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Golden, Bubbly Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes. This steaming period cooks the pasta through. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and bubbly, and the edges are slightly caramelized. If the top starts browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil.

Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving

This is a crucial step! Once it comes out of the oven, let the baked ziti rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the casserole to set, making it much easier to serve neat portions and preventing it from being a soupy mess. The flavors also continue to meld during this resting period.

Nutritional Spotlight: What’s in Every Delicious Bite?

While this is a decadent comfort food, a serving typically offers a good balance of macronutrients. Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approx. 450-600 per serving (depending on portion size and cheese fat content)
• Protein: 25-35g
• Carbohydrates: 30-45g
• Fat: 20-35g (with saturated fat varying based on meat and cheese choices)
• Fiber: 4-6g

Making It Even Better: Healthier Alternatives and Tips

Customize this beloved dish to fit your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor!

• Leaner Protein: Swap ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, use crumbled firm tofu or a mix of mushrooms and lentils.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat ziti for added fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor profile.
• Reduced-Fat Dairy: Opt for part-skim ricotta and mozzarella if you want to cut down on fat. The flavor might be slightly less rich, but it will still be delicious.
• Packed with Veggies: Sneak in finely chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach into the meat sauce for an extra nutritional boost. Sauté them with the onions for best results.
• Lower Sodium Sauce: Use “no salt added” crushed tomatoes and low-sodium beef broth, then season to taste with salt at the end.

Serving Up Happiness: What to Pair with Your Baked Ziti

This rich and hearty dish is a meal in itself, but a few simple accompaniments can make it even more delightful:

• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, light salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the baked ziti. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
• Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. A warm, soft baguette or some toasted garlic bread is always a good idea.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make for a healthy and colorful side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Baked Ziti Perfection

A few common pitfalls can turn a great baked ziti into a mediocre one. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Remember, it bakes for nearly an hour! Undercooking it slightly is key.
• Watery Sauce: Ensure your sauce simmers long enough to thicken. Don’t add too much liquid initially.
• Skipping the Rest: Patience is a virtue! Letting it rest is crucial for easy serving.
• Insufficient Seasoning: Taste and adjust your sauce and ricotta mixture before assembling. Bland ingredients lead to a bland dish.
• Not Enough Cheese: Don’t be shy with the mozzarella and Parmesan! They are integral to the texture and flavor.

Storing and Reheating Your Leftover Masterpiece

Leftovers are often just as good, if not better, the next day! Let the baked ziti cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat: You can reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through. For larger portions, cover the baking dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of water or broth before reheating if it seems dry.

The Final Word: Your New Go-To Comfort Food

This Ultimate Ground Beef Baked Ziti recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a guaranteed way to bring smiles to the table. It’s the perfect balance of rich, savory, and cheesy, with a comforting homestyle appeal that makes everyone feel welcome. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this baked ziti is sure to become a cherished favorite. So gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a masterpiece that will be talked about long after the last bite.

Give this recipe a try and let us know your favorite part in the comments below! What will you serve with your ultimate baked ziti?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire baked ziti dish up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, cover with foil, and bake as directed, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the covered baking time to ensure it heats through. You may need to uncover it for a bit longer at the end to get that perfect golden top.

What kind of pasta is best for baked ziti?

Traditionally, ziti pasta is used (hence the name!), but rigatoni, penne, or even large elbow macaroni work wonderfully. The key is a shape that has ridges or hollows to catch the sauce and cheese.

Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! Baked ziti freezes beautifully either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed (adding extra time if needed). If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze. Reheat from frozen or thawed in the oven.

Why is my baked ziti watery?

This usually happens if the sauce isn’t thick enough, or if the pasta was slightly overcooked and released too much water. Ensure your sauce simmers down sufficiently, and remember to cook the pasta just shy of al dente. Letting the baked ziti rest after baking also helps any excess liquid redistribute throughout the dish and thicken.

Can I add other meats besides ground beef?

Certainly! Italian sausage (mild or hot) is a fantastic addition or substitute for ground beef, adding another layer of savory flavor. Ground turkey or chicken are leaner options, and crumbled meatballs can also be incorporated for an extra touch of indulgence.

Cheesy Easy Baked Ziti

• Author: Chef Sara

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

ThisCheesy Easy Baked Zitiis a simple, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Loaded with melty mozzarella and creamy ricotta, it’s baked to golden perfection in a rich pasta sauce. A comforting classic that’s easy to make and sure to impress!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1pound ziti noodles24 ouncespasta sauce (your favorite variety)3 cupsshredded mozzarella cheese15 ouncesricotta cheese
• 24 ouncespasta sauce (your favorite variety)3 cupsshredded mozzarella cheese15 ouncesricotta cheese
• 3 cupsshredded mozzarella cheese15 ouncesricotta cheese
• 15 ouncesricotta cheese

---

Instructions

1. 1️⃣Preheat the oven:Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).2️⃣Cook the ziti:Bring a large pot of water to a boil, season it generously with salt, and cook the ziti noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and return the noodles to the pot.3️⃣Prepare the cheese mixture:In a large bowl, combine half of the shredded mozzarella cheese (1 ½ cups), all of the ricotta cheese, and the pasta sauce. Mix until well combined and creamy.4️⃣Coat the pasta:Add the cooked ziti noodles to the cheese and sauce mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the noodles are evenly coated.5️⃣Assemble the dish:Spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.6️⃣Top with cheese:Sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.7️⃣Bake:Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. For a golden-brown finish, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes if desired.8️⃣Serve:Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, comforting dish warm!
2. 2️⃣Cook the ziti:Bring a large pot of water to a boil, season it generously with salt, and cook the ziti noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and return the noodles to the pot.
3. 3️⃣Prepare the cheese mixture:In a large bowl, combine half of the shredded mozzarella cheese (1 ½ cups), all of the ricotta cheese, and the pasta sauce. Mix until well combined and creamy.4️⃣Coat the pasta:Add the cooked ziti noodles to the cheese and sauce mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the noodles are evenly coated.5️⃣Assemble the dish:Spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.6️⃣Top with cheese:Sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.7️⃣Bake:Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. For a golden-brown finish, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes if desired.8️⃣Serve:Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, comforting dish warm!
4. 4️⃣Coat the pasta:Add the cooked ziti noodles to the cheese and sauce mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the noodles are evenly coated.5️⃣Assemble the dish:Spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.6️⃣Top with cheese:Sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.7️⃣Bake:Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. For a golden-brown finish, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes if desired.8️⃣Serve:Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, comforting dish warm!
5. 5️⃣Assemble the dish:Spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
6. 6️⃣Top with cheese:Sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.7️⃣Bake:Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. For a golden-brown finish, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes if desired.8️⃣Serve:Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, comforting dish warm!
7. 7️⃣Bake:Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. For a golden-brown finish, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes if desired.8️⃣Serve:Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, comforting dish warm!
8. 8️⃣Serve:Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, comforting dish warm!

---

Notes

Optional Add-Ins:Enhance the dish by adding cooked ground beef, sausage, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the cheese mixture.Storage:Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.Make Ahead:Assemble the ziti ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
Storage:Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.Make Ahead:Assemble the ziti ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
Make Ahead:Assemble the ziti ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.