Ground Beef Baked Ziti

Name: Ground Beef Baked Ziti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Savor the comforting flavors of this hearty Ground Beef Baked Ziti, a perfect family meal that's easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying.

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2025-12-25T17:04:16.422Z

This Ground Beef Baked Ziti is a family favorite that combines perfectly cooked pasta with a rich meat sauce and gooey cheese. It's the ultimate comfort food that can be enjoyed any night of the week.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory flavors that everyone will love
Easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners
Cheesy and satisfying, guaranteed to please the whole family

      

A Classic Italian Comfort Food

Ground Beef Baked Ziti is a beloved dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine to your dining table. This hearty casserole is not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal choice for family meals or gatherings. The combination of tender ziti pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

This dish is reminiscent of traditional lasagna but offers a simpler preparation method. By layering the ingredients in a baking dish, you achieve the same delicious flavors without the fuss of individual layers. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you want to serve up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

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 refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for later enjoyment. This makes it a fantastic option for busy families or individuals looking to simplify weeknight dinners.

To reheat, simply pop it in the oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. The flavors continue to meld beautifully, ensuring that each bite remains delicious even after being stored. This makes it a go-to recipe for those who want to save time without sacrificing taste.

Customizable Ingredients

Ground Beef Baked Ziti is highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add in vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for an extra nutritional boost and flavor enhancement.

For cheese lovers, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Adding ricotta cheese provides a creamy texture, while mozzarella offers that classic stringy cheese pull. Each variation can give the dish a unique twist, making it a fun recipe to make again and again.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Ground Beef Baked Ziti:

Ingredients

12 oz ziti pasta
1 lb ground beef
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Ground Beef Baked Ziti:

Cook the Ziti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the ziti mixture into a baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Cover 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.

Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious homemade Ground Beef Baked Ziti!

Storage Tips

To store your Ground Beef Baked Ziti, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Properly stored, it can last in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you decide to freeze it, ensure it is well-wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

When reheating, consider adding a splash of marinara sauce to keep the dish moist and enhance the flavors. Whether you choose to bake it again or microwave individual portions, you'll be amazed at how well this dish holds up!

Serving Suggestions

Ground Beef Baked Ziti pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad can brighten up the dish and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the baked ziti. You might also consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables for an additional health boost.

For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil can also elevate the presentation, making your meal not just delicious but visually appealing as well.

Nutritional Information

Ground Beef Baked Ziti is a filling dish that offers a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. Each serving provides a hearty dose of energy, making it ideal for those with active lifestyles. While it can be indulgent, you can easily modify the ingredients to create a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

Incorporating lean ground meat and whole grain pasta can enhance the nutritional profile, while the addition of vegetables adds essential vitamins and minerals. Enjoy this dish as part of a balanced diet, and feel free to indulge occasionally!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover it well and it will last up to 3 months in the freezer.