If you are craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe. Combining tender pasta, rich ground beef simmered in savory marinara, and creamy ricotta cheese layered beneath a golden blanket of mozzarella and Parmesan, this dish is the ultimate family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, every bite bursts with hearty flavor and gooey cheesiness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list; these basics come together effortlessly to build layers of flavor and texture that make this baked ziti irresistible. Each component plays a key role from the robust meat sauce to the luscious cheeses that add creaminess and a melty finish.
- Ziti pasta (1 lb): The perfect tubular pasta to hold all that cheesy, saucy goodness inside.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Brings a rich, savory depth and hearty texture to the dish.
- Medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and a gentle bite to balance the savory notes.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Infuses a fragrant, aromatic boost that lifts the entire sauce.
- Marinara sauce (24 oz): The tomato-based heart of the dish, providing tang and herbs.
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Creates a creamy, mild layer with soft, luscious texture.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (2 cups): Melts beautifully for that classic bubbly cheesy top.
- Parmesan cheese, grated (1/2 cup): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to enhance every bite.
- Dried basil (1 tsp): Brings a hint of herbal sweetness that pairs perfectly with tomatoes.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): Contributes earthy warmth and depth to the sauce.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- Olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, adding a subtle fruitiness.
How to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Boil the Pasta
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms, cook the ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain it well and set aside to cool slightly, ensuring it doesn’t become mushy in the bake.
Step 2: Cook the Meat Sauce
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes, to bring out its natural sweetness. Then, toss in the minced garlic and ground beef, breaking up the meat with your spoon or spatula as it browns evenly and releases savory juices.
Step 3: Build Flavor with Sauce and Herbs
Once the beef is browned, pour in the marinara sauce and sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing all the herbs and spices to meld with the meat and tomato base for a rich, aromatic sauce.
Step 4: Mix the Cheeses
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the mild tang of the cheeses, creating a creamy blend that will layer beautifully in the casserole.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
Grab a large baking dish and start by spreading a layer of cooked ziti on the bottom. Spoon over some of the flavorful meat sauce, then dollop the ricotta mixture on top. Repeat these layers once more, finishing by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the top for a golden, bubbling crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the assembled dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the cheese on top to be melted, bubbly, and slightly browned. After baking, let the ziti rest for about 5 minutes—this helps it set and makes it easier to serve without losing all that cheesy goodness.
How to Serve Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add a fresh touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh basil or parsley just before serving. A dash of extra grated Parmesan on each plate adds a sharp contrast to the creamy layers.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple and classic with a crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or broccoli also pair wonderfully, adding a nutritious green balance to the rich pasta bake.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, try serving the baked ziti in individual ramekins, topped with a sprig of fresh thyme or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. You can also add a sprinkle of chili flakes for those who like a little heat, or even layer in some sautéed spinach for extra color and nutrients.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The baked ziti will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for easy and delicious next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
This Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers before baking or freeze the fully baked dish wrapped tightly in foil and plastic wrap. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight if frozen, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual servings until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or extra marinara via the top can help retain moisture during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ziti is traditional because it holds the sauce well, penne, rigatoni, or even shells work great as substitutes. Just be sure to adjust cooking times to keep the pasta al dente.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative to keep the hearty texture while making it vegetarian-friendly. The rich marinara and cheeses still provide plenty of flavor.
How spicy is the baked ziti?
This recipe isn’t naturally spicy but you can add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle on top before baking if you like a subtle kick.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You sure can. Assemble the entire dish up to a day before baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from chilled.
What type of ricotta cheese should I use?
Use whole milk ricotta for its creamy texture and mild flavor. Low-fat ricotta can be used but may yield a less rich result.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe is a timeless crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, the layers of savory meat sauce and melty cheese create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to pasta bake!
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Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This classic Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta is a comforting Italian-American casserole featuring tender pasta layered with savory ground beef marinara sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, this baked dish combines simple ingredients with rich flavors for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb (450g) ziti pasta
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz (680g) marinara sauce
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- Salt and pepper, a pinch
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the ziti later.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the ziti pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté Onion: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Cook Ground Beef and Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with onions, followed by the ground beef. Cook until the beef is fully browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Simmer Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce along with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Season lightly with salt and pepper and mix well.
- Assemble Layers: In a large baking dish, start by layering half of the cooked pasta. Spread half of the meat sauce evenly over the pasta, then dollop the ricotta cheese mixture on top. Repeat the layering with the remaining pasta and meat sauce. Finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the baked ziti rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and make serving easier.
Notes
- The ricotta mixture can be made ahead and refrigerated to save time.
- Use whole milk ricotta for creamier texture or part-skim for lower fat.
- Fresh basil can be substituted for dried basil if available.
- Leftover baked ziti stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats nicely.
- To add a little heat, consider stirring in red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
