Ground Beef Baked Ziti

Name: Ground Beef Baked Ziti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Favorites

Savor the comforting flavors of ground beef baked ziti, a classic Italian-American dish that brings together tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese.

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2025-12-25T18:31:06.947Z

This baked ziti recipe brings together a rich meat sauce and al dente pasta, topped with bubbling cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying meal for the whole family
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners
Can be made ahead and baked just before serving

      

A Family Favorite

Ground beef baked ziti is more than just a meal; it's a tradition that brings families together around the dinner table. The combination of ziti pasta, savory ground beef, and rich marinara sauce creates a hearty dish that appeals to both kids and adults. Each bite is a comforting reminder of cozy family dinners and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, ground beef baked ziti allows you to whip up a delicious meal in no time, making it a go-to recipe for families everywhere.

Customize to Your Taste

One of the great things about baked ziti is its versatility. You can easily customize this recipe to suit your family's preferences. If you prefer a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the meat sauce. For a veggie boost, mix in some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

You can also experiment with different types of cheese. While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to swap in provolone or gouda for a twist. Whatever your preferences, baked ziti can be tailored to create a dish that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Freeze

Planning ahead? Ground beef baked ziti is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can assemble the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it an ideal option for busy families or those who want to have a delicious homemade meal ready to go after a long day.

Additionally, if you're looking to stock your freezer, this recipe freezes beautifully. Just prepare the baked ziti as directed, let it cool completely, and then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply bake from frozen, adding a little extra time to ensure it's heated through.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your delicious baked ziti:

Ingredients

12 oz ziti pasta
1 lb ground beef
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your ground beef baked ziti:

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, followed by half of the mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat the layers.

Bake

Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your baked ziti with a side salad or garlic bread!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your ground beef baked ziti experience, consider serving it with a fresh garden salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the greens offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the baked ziti, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Garlic bread is another fantastic accompaniment. Whether store-bought or homemade, the warm, buttery slices are perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce on your plate, enhancing the overall meal.

Storage Tips

Leftover ground beef baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

If you have a larger batch, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. This way, you can easily enjoy this comforting dish later, making it a convenient option for those busy days when cooking from scratch isn't feasible.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with baked ziti?

Baked ziti pairs well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.

→ Can I freeze leftover baked ziti?

Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.