Ground Beef Baked Ziti

Name: Ground Beef Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 24 oz marinara sauce; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Ground beef baked ziti is a delicious and hearty pasta dish that combines flavorful ground beef, ziti pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2025-12-25T17:19:11.183Z

This Ground Beef Baked Ziti recipe is a family favorite that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. The layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and bubbly cheese create a delightful dish that everyone will love!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for a crowd
Rich, savory flavors that satisfy
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners

      

A Classic Comfort Food

Ground beef baked ziti is a beloved dish that has become a staple in many households. Its combination of hearty pasta, savory ground beef, and rich tomato sauce creates a comforting meal that warms the soul. This dish is not only satisfying but also brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

This dish is often referred to as a 'one-pot wonder' because it combines all its components into one cohesive meal. The ziti pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring that every forkful is packed with flavor. Whether served on a chilly evening or at a festive gathering, ground beef baked ziti is sure to please every palate at your table.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of ground beef baked ziti is its versatility for meal prepping. You can easily make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for busy weeknights. It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy a hearty meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch every time. Simply portion out the ziti into individual servings for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

In addition to being a great meal prep option, the baked ziti can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition, or swap out the ground beef for turkey or a meat alternative. This adaptability makes baked ziti a fantastic choice for families with varying dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes time to serve your ground beef baked ziti, consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad and some crusty garlic bread. The crispness of the salad contrasts nicely with the rich, cheesy pasta, creating a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables for added fiber and nutrients.

For those who enjoy a little kick, drizzle some hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the baked ziti before serving. This adds an exciting burst of flavor that elevates the dish even further. Don't forget to have some extra grated Parmesan cheese on hand for those who love to top their pasta with a cheesy finish!

Ingredients

For the Baked Ziti

12 oz ziti pasta
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
24 oz marinara sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti pasta with the meat sauce and ricotta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Dish

Spread half of the pasta mixture in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer half of the mozzarella cheese on top. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving!

Tips for the Perfect Baked Ziti

To achieve the best results, ensure you cook the ziti pasta just until al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy during the baking process. Remember that the pasta will continue to cook as it bakes in the sauce, so you want it to have a bit of bite to it when you first drain it.

If you're looking to enhance the flavor of your baked ziti, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the meat sauce. This will give it a fresh, aromatic touch that complements the richness of the cheese and beef beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe dish.

When reheating, you can simply pop the frozen ziti in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to retain moisture and prevent the cheese from burning.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in your baked ziti. While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, you can also incorporate provolone, gouda, or even a bit of feta for a tangy twist. Each cheese adds its unique flavor profile, making your dish even more delicious.

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein. You can also load up on veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant, creating a hearty and nutritious dish that everyone can enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I serve with baked ziti?

A simple side salad and garlic bread pair perfectly with baked ziti.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, baked ziti freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.