Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Baked ziti with ground beef is a hearty, comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. Tender pasta, savory beef, and melty cheese come together in a warm, cozy casserole. I like to mix the sauce and pasta thoroughly so every bite is flavorful. It’s simple to prep, filling, and makes everyone feel at home with every serving.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

This baked ziti with ground beef is easy to make, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s cozy and weeknight-friendly while being freezer-friendly for meal prep. You can make it ahead, store leftovers, and reheat without losing taste. Budget-friendly ingredients like pasta, cheese, and ground beef keep it practical, while the cheesy, saucy texture makes it crowd-pleasing. It’s versatile, comforting, and satisfying—ideal for busy families, potlucks, or a casual dinner that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Tip: Use lean ground beef for a rich flavor without excess grease.

1 pound ziti pasta
1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
24 ounces marinara sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation –
Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Chop onion and garlic. Heat olive oil in a large skillet for the beef and aromatics.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process –
Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. Add marinara, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients –
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Stir until pasta is evenly coated. Layer half of the pasta mixture in a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Bake –
Top with remaining pasta and cheeses. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot for a comforting, family-friendly meal.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

This baked ziti can be prepped ahead, assembled, and refrigerated or frozen. It reheats well for lunch or dinner, making it ideal for meal planning. Minimal hands-on time is needed, and leftovers stay flavorful, so you can enjoy a homemade, hearty meal even on your busiest days.

Tips & Tricks

Brown ground beef thoroughly to prevent excess grease in the casserole. Drain if needed to avoid soggy pasta.
Stir pasta and sauce well before baking to ensure even flavor and texture.
Use fresh cheese for a melty, gooey top. Pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that affect melt.
Let the baked ziti rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. It helps the sauce set and makes slicing easier.

Variations

Extra Meaty Version
Add Italian sausage along with ground beef for a richer, more savory flavor. Brown thoroughly before combining with the pasta and sauce.

Vegetarian Option
Skip the beef and use sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a hearty vegetarian casserole. Add extra cheese to keep it satisfying.

Ingredient Swap
Use penne, rigatoni, or whole wheat pasta instead of ziti. Swap marinara for a tomato-basil sauce or a creamy tomato sauce for a different taste.

Flavor Boost
Add fresh garlic, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for extra flavor. Fresh basil or oregano added after baking brightens the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Family Dinner
Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete, cozy meal.
Potluck or Party
Serve in a large casserole dish and allow guests to help themselves for a casual, crowd-pleasing option.
Weeknight Comfort
Add a side of roasted vegetables for a simple, balanced meal after a busy day.
Cheesy Upgrade
Top individual servings with extra Parmesan or mozzarella before serving for a gooey, indulgent touch.

Storage Instructions

Fridge Storage
Store leftovers in airtight containers for 3–4 days. Cheese may firm up slightly but reheats well.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. Add a splash of water or sauce to maintain moisture.
Freezing
Freeze assembled ziti before baking for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra 10–15 minutes to cook time.
Make-Ahead Tips
Cook pasta and sauce ahead of time. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate until ready to bake. Cheese and herbs can be added just before baking for freshness.

Recipe Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Rest Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Calories: 450–500 per serving
Protein: 25–30 grams
Contains calcium from cheese and iron from ground beef. Values may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

FAQs

Yes, assemble and refrigerate or freeze before baking.

Cook pasta al dente and drain well. Avoid over-saucing the casserole.

Yes, it works well as a leaner alternative.

Add more mozzarella on top before baking or sprinkle Parmesan when serving.

Yes, but texture is better if frozen before baking. Reheat thoroughly.

Conclusion

Baked ziti with ground beef is a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for families. With tender pasta, savory beef, and melted cheese, it’s flexible for meal prep, leftovers, or freezer-friendly dinners. Customize with vegetables, herbs, or extra cheese for your favorite version. This baked ziti is cozy, satisfying, and ideal for any night you want a warm, homemade meal.