If you have a craving for a warm, hearty meal that feels like a loving hug on a plate, the Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic Italian-American dish combines tender ziti pasta with savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and perfectly melted cheeses, all enveloped in rich marinara sauce. Each bite delivers a comforting blend of textures and flavors that will quickly make this recipe a go-to favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly, giving you a dish that’s rich in flavor and perfect in texture. Every ingredient plays an important role—whether it’s the pasta providing a satisfying bite, the ground beef adding savory depth, or the cheese creating that luscious creaminess.
- 1 pound ziti pasta: Choose quality pasta that holds sauce well and bakes beautifully without becoming mushy.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps brown the beef and onions perfectly.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that brings savoriness and fullness to the dish.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor when softened.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Gives a fragrant kick enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors harmoniously.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and balance to the richness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to provide that classic Italian essence.
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce: The tomato-based glue that unites the dish with tangy sweetness and savor.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, this cheese creates luscious layers of softness.
- 1 egg: Binds the ricotta filling and adds a delicate richness.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistible cheesy stretch.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides salty, nutty notes for an extra flavor punch.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a bright, fresh touch and a pop of color.
How to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta until it reaches that perfect al dente texture—firm enough to hold shape after baking but tender enough to soak up the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly. This step is crucial because overcooked pasta can turn mushy once baked, and you want every bite to be delightful.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add ground beef and diced onions. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent, usually about 6 to 8 minutes. This browning develops deep flavors for your sauce. Next, stir in minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning and cook for another minute to release those aromatic herbs and garlic notes. Pour in the marinara sauce and let it gently simmer for 5 minutes. This melding of ingredients makes the sauce rich, savory, and full of cozy comfort.
Step 3: Create the Ricotta Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese and egg until smooth and well combined. The egg acts as a binder to give your ricotta layer just the right consistency so it stays creamy without becoming runny when baked. This step elevates the texture and richness of your baked ziti perfectly.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
In a large mixing bowl, combine half of the cooked ziti pasta with half of the meat sauce, stirring to coat every piece in that luscious sauce. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then layer half of your pasta mixture at the bottom. Spoon the entire ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta layer, then sprinkle with ¾ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Follow with the remaining pasta and meat sauce, then top it off with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Layering the ingredients thoughtfully ensures a beautifully balanced bake with every forkful.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to start melting beautifully. Then uncover and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and golden. Once out of the oven, let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving; this rest time helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
How to Serve Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkling of fresh basil or parsley just before serving not only brightens the dish but adds a fresh herbal aroma that perfectly contrasts the rich, cheesy baked ziti. These greens also add a lovely burst of color, making your presentation pop and inviting everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
This Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing side salads like a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad to give balance with its tangy, crunchy notes. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette are also excellent choices to soak up any extra sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style approach, serve the baked ziti straight from the casserole dish so everyone can help themselves to that golden cheesy goodness. Alternatively, plate individual portions topped with fresh herbs and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. Even layering servings in small oven-safe ramekins and baking individually adds a charming touch for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors often deepen after a day, making it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy evenings when you want comfort food without the effort.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. After baking and cooling completely, portion the baked ziti into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing much of its delicious texture or flavor, perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually about 20 minutes if reheating a whole casserole or 3–4 minutes in the microwave for a single portion. Covering the dish helps retain moisture and keeps the cheese from drying out during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While ziti is the classic choice due to its hollow shape that holds sauce well, penne or rigatoni work beautifully as well. Just make sure to cook until al dente and adjust baking time slightly if needed.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe?
Yes, you can replace the ground beef with vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a delicious vegetarian twist. Adding lentils is another great protein-packed option.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the entire dish and refrigerate it before baking. When ready, pop it in the oven and just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream for a similar creamy layer. The texture will be slightly different but equally delicious.
Does this recipe freeze well after baking?
It does, but for the best texture, freezing before baking is recommended. After baking, freezing can sometimes make the pasta a little softer upon reheating, though it remains tasty.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that brings warmth, joy, and a little bit of Italian-American magic to your dinner table, you really can’t go wrong with this Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe. Its remarkable combination of flavors and textures speaks to comfort food done right, and it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe rotation. So, go ahead and give it a try—you’re in for a deliciously satisfying experience that everyone will thank you for!
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Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
A comforting and hearty Italian-American baked ziti featuring tender pasta layered with a savory ground beef and marinara sauce, creamy ricotta mixed with egg, and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this cheesy pasta bake combines classic flavors baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound ziti pasta
Meat Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it is ready for baking the ziti later.
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare meat sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add ground beef and diced onion, cooking until beef is browned and onion is soft, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning; cook for another minute. Pour in marinara sauce and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Mix ricotta and egg: In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese and egg, mixing until smooth. This will add creaminess and bind the cheese layer.
- Combine pasta and sauce: In a large mixing bowl, toss half of the cooked pasta with half of the meat sauce until evenly coated.
- Assemble the casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the pasta and meat sauce mixture on the bottom. Dollop and spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta layer, then sprinkle with ¾ cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Add remaining layers: Spread the rest of the pasta mixed with the remaining meat sauce over the ricotta layer. Top with remaining ¾ cup mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Rest and garnish: Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired to add a bright, fresh note.
Notes
- You can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate before baking, making meal prep easy.
- For extra flavor and variety, substitute or combine the ground beef with Italian sausage.
