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Baked Ziti With Ground Beef

This classic baked ziti recipe features tender pasta layered with a rich, savory ground beef tomato sauce and melted cheese. Inspired by a traditional Neapolitan family recipe, it combines simple, fresh ingredients with hearty flavors, creating a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 Persons
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 12 ounces ziti pasta
  • 3 cups marinara sauce homemade or high-quality jarred
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
  • To taste salt
  • To taste black pepper
  • Optional red pepper flakes for a mild kick

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Large mixing bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Cheese grater
  • Colander
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta until just al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  5. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  6. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, half of the fresh basil, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Reduce heat to low and simmer the sauce gently for 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the meat sauce. Toss gently to coat all the pasta.
  8. Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and a few tablespoons of Parmesan over the layer.
  9. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, and finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly spread.
  10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
  12. Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with the remaining fresh basil leaves.

Notes

  • To add extra creaminess, layer dollops of ricotta cheese between pasta layers.
  • For a veggie boost, stir in cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms with the meat sauce.
  • A splash of red wine during sauce simmering adds rich depth.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator up to 3 days, and also freeze beautifully for reheating.
  • Serve with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.