If you’re craving a heartwarming, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal, look no further than this exquisite Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you up in a cozy Italian hug with every forkful—imagine perfectly cooked ziti pasta mingling with savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and layers of creamy ricotta, all topped with a bubbly mozzarella and Parmesan crust. Whether it’s a family feast or a special weeknight dinner, this recipe promises a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe, each playing a vital role to create a fabulous harmony of taste, texture, and color. Every element, from the pasta’s firmness to the herbs’ aromatic punch, contributes to making your baked ziti an extraordinary homemade classic.
- Ziti pasta (1 lb or 450g): The perfect tubular pasta that holds sauce well and delivers a satisfying bite in every mouthful.
- Ground beef (1 lb or 450g): Adds hearty, savory richness that elevates the dish from simple pasta to a fulfilling main course.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Provides a sweet and aromatic base when sautéed, enriching the overall flavor.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a warm, fragrant punch that enhances the savory depth of the sauce.
- Marinara sauce (24 oz or 680g): This vibrant tomato sauce unifies all ingredients with its tangy, herb-infused essence.
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Adds creamy texture and a gentle tang, balancing the richness of the beef and mozzarella.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups shredded): Melts into gooey, golden perfection, creating that irresistible cheesy top layer.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup grated): Offers a sharp, nutty finish that elevates cheesy goodness to the next level.
- Dried basil (1 tsp): Infuses a classic Italian herbal note complementing the tomato and meat sauce.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): Adds earthiness, tying together the flavors perfectly.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best in every ingredient.
- Olive oil (for sautéing): Provides a subtle richness and helps gently cook the aromatics without overpowering.
How to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it perfectly hot for baking your ziti to bubbly perfection. Meanwhile, cook the ziti pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, ready to soak up that flavorful sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Brown Beef
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add chopped onion and cook until it turns soft and translucent, about five minutes. Toss in minced garlic just until fragrant, and then add the ground beef. Break it up with your spoon, cooking until browned and no pink remains. This step builds a savory, hearty flavor base that’s simply irresistible.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Into that browned beef mixture, stir in your marinara sauce, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the pot simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing those vibrant herbs and tangy tomatoes to marry perfectly with the meat. Your kitchen will smell just as amazing as you’re imagining right now!
Step 4: Mix the Cheesy Ricotta Blend
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with one cup of shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Season lightly with salt and pepper. This creamy, cheesy mixture is the luscious heart of your baked ziti and brings a comforting richness to each layer.
Step 5: Layer the Ziti
Grab a large baking dish and start layering: first, half of the cooked pasta, then a generous layer of meat sauce, followed by the ricotta mixture. Repeat these layers to the top, then finish off with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This layering ensures every bite has that perfect balance of pasta, meat, and cheese.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the cheese on top to melt into a golden, bubbly crust. Once baked, let your masterpiece rest for 5 minutes before serving—patience here rewards you with perfectly set, ooey-gooey baked ziti.
How to Serve Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds a vibrant pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness that brightens the rich, cheesy flavors. For a touch of elegance, a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick or shine.
Side Dishes
Pair your baked ziti with warm garlic bread straight from the oven to mop up any sauce left on the plate, or a crisp, refreshing green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini also make excellent, colorful companions that bring texture and nutrients to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in rustic ramekins for a charming touch when entertaining guests. Alternatively, add a layer of fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms inside the layers for a surprise burst of vegetable goodness. For the ultimate cheesy experience, sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan just before baking for an extra golden crust that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers equally delicious and convenient for quick meals or lunches.
Freezing
This Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe freezes brilliantly. Just assemble the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and place in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking to enjoy that fresh-from-the-oven taste anytime you want.
Reheating
To reheat, cover your portion with foil and warm in a preheated 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but baking ensures the best texture and flavor revival.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While ziti is classic for this recipe, robust pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni work wonderfully since they hold sauce well and create that perfect baked pasta texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare and assemble the baked ziti a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it fresh just before serving. It’s a great way to save time on busy days or when hosting guests.
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Yes, freezing is a fantastic way to store leftovers or prep in advance. Just make sure it’s well-covered to prevent freezer burn, and thaw it in the fridge before baking to preserve all those layers of flavor and cheese.
How do I reheat baked ziti?
The best method is baking at 350°F covered with foil to keep it moist, but individual servings can also be reheated in the microwave. Either way, you’ll enjoy the comforting flavors just as much as when freshly made.
Can I swap ground beef for something else?
For sure! Ground turkey, chicken, sausage, or even plant-based crumbles are great alternatives if you want to change up the protein or prefer a leaner or vegetarian-friendly version.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe is truly a keeper—rich, cheesy, and full of heart. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make over and over, whether for cozy family nights or casual get-togethers. So grab your favorite pasta, gather your ingredients, and dive into this comforting Italian classic. I promise, you’ll fall in love with every bite, just like I have!
