This Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta is the ultimate comfort food! Loaded with tender pasta, savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese, it’s the perfect dish for family dinners or gatherings. Simple to make and packed with flavor, this hearty recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort: A family favorite that’s warm, cheesy, and satisfying.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together for a delicious dish.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or freezing for busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for potlucks, parties, or a cozy night in.

How to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta

1. Cook the Pasta

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef and Sauté the Onion

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease.

3. Add Marinara Sauce

• Stir the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning into the ground beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.

4. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

• In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with half of the Parmesan cheese. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for flavor.

5. Assemble the Ziti

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and marinara sauce mixture. Toss to coat.
• Spread half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Dollop the ricotta mixture over the pasta, spreading it evenly.
• Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta.
• Add the remaining pasta mixture on top and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

6. Bake Until Golden

• Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve hot with garlic bread or a green salad.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up all that cheesy goodness.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing side dish to balance the richness.
• Steamed Veggies: Broccoli or green beans pair well for added nutrition.

Tips for the Best Baked Ziti

1. Use Al Dente Pasta: The pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so don’t overcook it beforehand.
2. Add Extra Layers: For a cheesier dish, add extra ricotta and mozzarella layers.
3. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a little heat.
4. Customize the Meat: Swap ground beef for sausage, turkey, or a mix of both.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta is the perfect combination of hearty, cheesy, and delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual dinner, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

Let me know how yours turns out—and don’t forget to share your favorite twists or garnishes. Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite! 🍝✨