Easy Baked Ziti Recipe with Meat
Introduction:
Craving a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying meal? This baked ziti recipe with meat delivers the perfect combination of tender pasta, savory ground beef or your favorite meat, and rich, flavorful tomato sauce straight to your table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a cozy weekend dinner, or a special family gathering, this recipe makes it easy to create a restaurant-quality dish right at home. With gooey melted cheese, perfectly seasoned meat, and comforting layers, every bite is pure deliciousness. you can try this baked ziti recipe with ground beef too.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti Recipe with Meat
- Hearty and filling: Perfect for family dinners.
- Customizable: Use ground beef, pork, or a combination.
- Easy to prepare: Minimal prep time and simple ingredients.
- Delicious layers: Pasta, meat, sauce, and gooey cheese.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ziti pasta | 1 pound |
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Marinara sauce | 4 cups |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup |
| Shredded mozzarella | 2 cups |
| Grated Parmesan | 1/2 cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions of
1. Prepare the Pasta
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Meat
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until soft.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Combine Sauce and Pasta
- Mix the cooked meat with marinara sauce in a large bowl.
- Add cooked ziti and stir to coat evenly.
4. Layer and Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, layer half the pasta mixture, dollops of ricotta, and half of the shredded mozzarella.
- Repeat layers, topping with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Let the baked ziti cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best baked ziti recipe with ground beef
- Use a combination of cheeses for richer flavor.
- Do not overcook pasta before baking; it will finish in the oven.
- Prepare ahead: Assemble the ziti the night before and bake fresh.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Bake in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Recipe Timing & Cook Time
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep ingredients (chopping, cooking meat, boiling pasta) | 15–20 min |
| Cook meat & sauce | 10–15 min |
| Boil ziti pasta | 8–10 min (al dente) |
| Assemble baked ziti | 5–7 min |
| Bake in oven | 20–25 min (until cheese is melted and bubbly) |
| Rest before serving | 5 min |
FAQ
Q: Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute ground pork, turkey, chicken, or even a combination of meats for a richer flavor. These alternatives work perfectly in this baked ziti recipe with meat, giving you flexibility to adjust taste and fat content.
Q: How long does it take to bake ziti?
A: Once assembled, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the ziti, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake fresh when ready to serve for convenience without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion
This baked ziti recipe with meat is a classic, comforting dish that’s easy to make at home. Using baked ziti recipe with ground beef or your favorite meat, you’ll enjoy a rich, cheesy, and flavorful meal that is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Layered with pasta, sauce, and cheese, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.