Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Ziti
- The Secret to a Flavorful Baked Ziti
- What You Need for the Best Baked Ziti
- How to Make Cheesy Baked Ziti Step by Step
- Tips to Make Your Baked Ziti Even Better
- Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Key Takeaways
Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food, packed with marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this dish is easy to make and full of rich Italian-American flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Ziti
If you love hearty, cheesy comfort food, this baked ziti recipe from Patricia Universe will be your new favorite! This dish is all about simplicity—pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese baked to perfection. It’s a classic Italian-American dish that never fails to please.
The Secret to a Flavorful Baked Ziti
The key to making the best baked ziti with ground beef is all about layering flavors. Start with perfectly cooked pasta, a well-seasoned meat sauce, and high-quality cheeses. Baking everything together allows the flavors to meld, creating that irresistible cheesy, bubbly finish.
What You Need for the Best Baked Ziti
Using the right ingredients is crucial for a delicious baked ziti recipe. High-quality marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella, and creamy ricotta make all the difference. And don’t forget a sprinkle of Parmesan for that perfect cheesy crust.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Ziti Step by Step
Making baked ziti is simple. Cook the pasta, brown the beef, mix it with sauce, and layer it with cheese in a baking dish. Pop it in the oven, and in just about 25 minutes, you’ll have a bubbling, golden-brown masterpiece.
Tips to Make Your Baked Ziti Even Better
For extra creaminess, mix ricotta with an egg before layering it with pasta. Want more flavor? Add Italian sausage instead of beef. You can also prep this dish ahead of time and bake it later, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a simple Caesar salad and garlic bread. A glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea also complements the flavors beautifully. It’s a dish that works for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike!
Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, cook until browned, then drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Layer half of the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish, add a layer of meat sauce, then repeat.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
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