Description
This comforting Baked Ziti recipe combines tender pasta, rich ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melty cheeses baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy-to-make, hearty Italian-American dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat & Dairy
- 1 pound ground beef
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta & Sauce
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the assembled ziti.
- Cook Pasta: Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, ensuring it has slight firmness to hold its shape during baking.
- Brown Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through, then drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Simmer with Sauce: Add the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the browned beef and simmer together for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti pasta, ricotta cheese, and beef sauce mixture thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly for uniform cooking.
- Add Cheese Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top to create a cheesy crust during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, indicating the dish is heated through and ready to serve.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Do not overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Feel free to add fresh basil or parsley for garnish before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can prepare the dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate overnight before baking.
