Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta

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Rich, cheesy, and bubbling straight from the oven, Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta is comfort food at its finest. This dish layers tender pasta with a savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella to create a hearty casserole that satisfies every craving.

Perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or meal prep for the week, baked ziti brings all the flavors of lasagna with less hassle. The ground beef adds a flavorful punch, while the ricotta adds a luscious, creamy texture that ties it all together.

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Ingredients for this Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Ricotta

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella. Mix until well coated.

Step 5: Layer and Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce, followed by the pasta mixture. Repeat layers, ending with a generous topping of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

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Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.

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Estimated Nutrition

• Calories: 460 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta works best for baked ziti?

Ziti is traditional, but penne or rigatoni can also be used as a substitute.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, cottage cheese can be used, though it will give a slightly different texture.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit the ground beef and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.

Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What’s the best way to reheat baked ziti?

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions.

Can I add other cheeses?

Yes, provolone, fontina, or asiago can be added for more flavor.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook it just to al dente and avoid overbaking.

Is it possible to use store-bought sauce?

Yes, a good-quality marinara or pasta sauce can save time and still deliver great flavor.

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