Best Baked Ziti With Ground Beef (Easy & Comforting Recipe)
Introduction:
There’s something about a warm casserole coming out of the oven that instantly feels like home. When you make baked ziti with ground beef, you’re not just putting dinner on the table you’re creating that slow-down moment everyone looks forward to after a long day. Whether you’re feeding a full house or just want leftovers that taste even better tomorrow, this recipe gives you the classic comfort of Italian-American pasta without the extra fuss.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
To keep the recipe simple and organized, here’s a clean ingredient table you can reference while cooking.
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ziti pasta | 1 lb | Cooked al dente |
| Ground beef | 1 lb | 85/15 preferred for flavor |
| Marinara sauce | 24 oz | Use jarred or homemade |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup | Whole milk for creaminess |
| Mozzarella cheese | 2 cups shredded | Divide for layering |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup grated | Optional but recommended |
| Onion & garlic | — | Sauté for flavor base |
| Italian seasoning | — | Add to taste |
| Salt & black pepper | — | Season in layers |
Optional Add-Ins
- Mild or spicy Italian sausage
- Fresh basil
- Red pepper flakes
- Spinach or mushrooms
How to Make Baked Ziti With Ground Beef (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 – Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil and season it generously with salt. This is important because it’s the only chance to flavor the pasta from the inside. Add the ziti and cook until just al dente, meaning it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, draining it a minute early helps prevent it from becoming overly soft or mushy after baking. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2 – Brown the Meat
Heat a small amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for a few minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, which brings out its natural sweetness. Stir in the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks for an even texture. Once the meat is done, drain off any excess grease to keep the dish flavorful but not heavy. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs, allowing the flavors to blend togethe
Step 3 – Mix the Sauce and Cheese
Stir the marinara sauce into the cooked beef and let it gently simmer for a few minutes so the flavors can come together. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with grated Parmesan, along with a light seasoning of salt and pepper. If you prefer a slightly firmer, more structured baked ziti, you can add one egg to the ricotta mixture. Stir until smooth and creamy, then set aside until you’re ready to assemble the dish
Step 4 – Assemble the Dish
Layering Order
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the baking dish
- Add half the cooked pasta
- Spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture
- Sprinkle mozzarella
- Repeat all layers
- Finish with mozzarella on top
Step 5 – Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes
- Uncover and bake another 10–15 minutes until the cheese browns and bubbles
Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving so the layers set and slice cleanly.
Tips for the Best Baked Ziti Recipe With Meat
- Don’t rinse the cooked pasta sauce sticks better
- Use a flavorful marinara instead of plain tomato sauce
- Salt each component lightly instead of all at once
- If using lean beef, add a splash of olive oil for richness
- For freezer meals, assemble but don’t bake until needed
You can freeze baked ziti with ground beef for up to 3 months.
Storage & Reheating baked ziti recipe with ground beef
Refrigeration
Store leftovers for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freezing
Freeze unbaked or baked baked ziti with ground beef for later use. If baking from frozen, add 15–20 extra minutes.
Reheating
Warm in the oven for the best texture. Microwaving works for single servings but won’t keep the top crispy.
FAQ – Baked Ziti With Ground Beef
Can you make baked ziti with ground beef ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Do you have to boil the pasta before baking ziti?
You’ll always cook it al dente first to prevent a soft, soggy result.
Can you substitute ricotta in this recipe?
If you prefer a different texture, cottage cheese or mascarpone both work well.
How long should baked ziti with ground beef rest before serving?
Give it 10 minutes so the layers stay together when slicing.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned how to make baked ziti with ground beef from start to finish, you’ve got a reliable, comforting meal that works any night of the week. Whether you stick with the classic version or try new add-ins, this recipe gives you flavor, flexibility, and leftovers that never disappoint.