Ground Beef Baked Ziti

Name: Ground Beef Baked Ziti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 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 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Deliciously cheesy and hearty, this Ground Beef Baked Ziti is a comforting dish that the whole family will love.

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2025-12-25T15:49:09.582Z

This Ground Beef Baked Ziti is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With layers of pasta, ground beef, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that never fails to satisfy.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for a family meal
Cheesy goodness in every bite
Easy to prepare and great for meal prep

      

A Comforting Family Meal

Ground Beef Baked Ziti is the epitome of comfort food, making it an ideal choice for family dinners. With its layers of pasta, beef, and gooey cheese, this dish brings everyone together around the table, creating moments of joy and connection. It's hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest eaters, while also being easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

This recipe is particularly great for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can prepare it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you're ready to serve. The rich flavors meld beautifully during baking, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It's the perfect way to make any evening feel special.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of Ground Beef Baked Ziti is its versatility. While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein for a lighter or vegetarian option. The marinara sauce can also be swapped for a homemade version or a different flavor, such as pesto or alfredo, depending on your family's preferences.

Additionally, feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the mix. Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be mixed in to boost the nutrition and flavor profile. This dish allows you to get creative while still delivering a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking to streamline your weekly cooking, Ground Beef Baked Ziti is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can make a large batch and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply store the portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and you’ll have a hearty meal ready to go at any time.

This dish also freezes well, making it a great option for those times when you want to prepare meals in advance. Just bake the ziti, let it cool, and then freeze it in portions. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave for a quick, satisfying meal that feels like a treat.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother preparation process.

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 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious baked ziti that everyone will enjoy.

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined. Add the beef mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.

Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Baked Ziti with a side salad or garlic bread!

Tips for the Best Baked Ziti

For the best flavor, consider using a high-quality marinara sauce. If you're up for it, making your own sauce can elevate this dish to another level. Fresh herbs and spices can also make a significant difference in taste, so don’t hesitate to experiment with additional seasonings.

When layering the ingredients, try to ensure an even distribution of meat and cheese throughout the ziti. This will help prevent clumps and ensure every bite is as delicious as the last. If you prefer a crustier top, broil the baked ziti for a few minutes at the end of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Ground Beef Baked Ziti pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A simple side salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the ziti and add a refreshing element to the meal.

For a cozy touch, serve with a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon. This can make your family dinner feel more special, transforming an ordinary night into a memorable dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute ziti with penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the ground beef with cooked vegetables or a plant-based meat alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.