Baked Ziti with Ground Beef Recipe | Easy Cheesy Family Dinner Favorite

Introduction

A comforting plate of baked ziti with ground beef brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. The combination of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, savory ground beef, and melted cheese creates a perfect harmony that feels like home with every bite. Many families cherish this meal for its simple preparation, hearty flavor, and the way it fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Preparing baked ziti does not require advanced cooking skills. It is one of those recipes that can easily become part of a regular meal rotation, especially for busy weeknights or gatherings. The best part is that it can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving. Whether cooking for a crowd or making a cozy dinner for two, this dish never fails to impress.

Unlike complicated pasta recipes that need constant attention, baked ziti allows flexibility and creativity. It welcomes variations, from different sauces to extra vegetables or cheese blends. The classic version with ground beef, however, remains a timeless favorite. Its layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese offer a comforting texture that feels indulgent yet familiar.

Let’s walk through everything needed to make the perfect baked ziti with ground beef—from the ingredient list to expert tips that guarantee a flavorful and satisfying result every time.

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Ingredients Needed

Below is a list of the ingredients along with their estimated calorie count per serving. These values are approximate and may vary based on the brands used and portion sizes.

Ingredient	Quantity	Estimated Calories
Ziti pasta	16 ounces	600
Ground beef (85 percent lean)	1 pound	850
Olive oil	1 tablespoon	120
Onion (chopped)	1 medium	45
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves	15
Crushed tomatoes	28 ounces	250
Tomato paste	2 tablespoons	30
Italian seasoning	1 tablespoon	10
Salt	1 teaspoon	0
Black pepper	½ teaspoon	2
Ricotta cheese	1 cup	430
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)	2 cups	480
Parmesan cheese (grated)	½ cup	110
Fresh basil or parsley (chopped)	2 tablespoons	5

Total estimated calories per serving: Around 500 to 600 calories depending on portion size.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until slightly firm to the bite, about two minutes less than the package instructions suggest. The pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so avoid making it too soft. Drain and drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.If you want more information, you can also check out our article on -Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage

Step 2: Cook the ground beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about thirty seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef and break it apart using a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Make the sauce
Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet with the cooked beef. Add tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Let the sauce simmer for about ten minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Mix the pasta with the sauce
Add the cooked ziti to the skillet or a large mixing bowl. Gently toss until every piece of pasta is coated evenly with the rich tomato and beef sauce. This ensures the flavor seeps into each bite.

Step 5: Assemble the dish
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the beef sauce. Add half of the ziti mixture, then spread a layer of ricotta cheese across the top. Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Add the remaining ziti and top it with the rest of the sauce, followed by the remaining mozzarella and parmesan.

Step 6: Bake to perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about twenty minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another ten to fifteen minutes, or until the cheese turns golden and bubbly. Let the dish rest for ten minutes before serving. This helps the layers hold together when scooping out portions.

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Tips for Customizing the Recipe

1. Add vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
   Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers blend beautifully with the tomato sauce and beef.
2. Experiment with different cheeses.
   Try a combination of provolone, asiago, or fontina for a richer taste. Using a blend of cheeses can create an irresistible texture.
3. Swap the meat if desired.
   Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage work wonderfully as substitutes for ground beef.
4. Use homemade sauce for a personal touch.
   A homemade marinara or tomato-basil sauce enhances freshness and depth of flavor.
5. Make it ahead of time.
   Prepare the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to two days before baking. It also freezes well for future meals.
6. Add a crispy topping.
   For a bakery-style crust, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a little butter and parmesan on top before baking uncovered.

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Nutritional Information

Approximate nutritional values per serving (based on eight servings):

These numbers may vary based on ingredient brands, substitutions, and portion sizes.

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Serving Suggestions

Baked ziti pairs beautifully with simple sides that balance its richness. A crisp green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar adds freshness to the meal. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce left on the plate.

For a family-style dinner, consider serving roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or asparagus. A glass of red wine complements the savory beef and cheese flavors wonderfully. If serving for a casual event, add a platter of antipasto with olives, cured meats, and cheese for a complete Italian-inspired spread.

Leftovers taste even better the next day. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot, and enjoy the flavors that have deepened overnight.

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FAQs

1. Can baked ziti with ground beef be frozen?
Yes, it freezes very well. Allow the dish to cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or an airtight lid. It can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat directly from frozen at 375 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through.

2. Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or rotini work just as well. The key is to use a pasta shape that holds sauce nicely.

3. How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook it slightly less than the package instructions. Since it continues to bake in the oven, undercooking by two minutes gives the perfect texture.

4. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Replace the ground beef with lentils, tofu crumbles, or additional vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. The dish will still be hearty and flavorful.

5. How long does baked ziti stay fresh in the refrigerator?
It keeps well for up to four days when stored in an airtight container. Reheat individual portions as needed.

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Conclusion

A warm serving of baked ziti with ground beef brings people together and turns a simple meal into something memorable. The rich sauce, tender pasta, and gooey cheese layers create a comforting experience that feels both homemade and indulgent. Whether preparing it for a family dinner, a celebration, or meal prep for the week, it delivers both taste and satisfaction every time.