Ultimate Baked Ziti Recipe With Ground Beef

I still remember the day a lady I worked with brought a steaming pan of baked ziti to our office potluck—it was an instant hit, and everyone loved it. That gooey, cheesy casserole became my family’s absolute favorite, a classic Italian comfort food that brings huge smiles to the dinner table. Unlike lasagna, baked ziti is easier to make, with less work, but just as tasty and decadent. It’s like lasagna’s laid back little brother—messy in the best sense of the word, with tender ziti noodles soaked in rich tomato sauce and ooey gooey cheese. I’ve even made it without meat for vegetarian guests, and it was well received, but in our house, meat must be included!

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and heartiness. I use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage for a perfectly seasoned meat sauce that never fails to fly with my pasta-fiends. While some people stick to tomato or marinara sauce and mozzarella, I’m in the latter camp, blending three types of cheese—mozzarella and a gooey cheese mixture stirred throughout—for that aromatic, cheesy magic. You can swap ziti for mostaccioli or any pasta shape you have; it’s okay to get creative! This Easy Baked Ziti recipe is a classic dinner idea that feeds the whole family, with leftovers that are a good thing because seconds and thirds are a must. No one minds getting a little sauce on their shirt—it’s that ridiculous and enjoyable.

If you’re a fan of baked pasta recipes, this Baked Ziti is a guaranteed hit. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, and I often try pairing it with other dishes like Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti or Stuffed Manicotti for variety. The deep flavors and hearty casserole style make it a go-to for any dinner, and it’s never not loved by my guests. Whether you’re new to Italian pasta or a seasoned cook, this recipe is a thing of comfort and joy.

A Family Favorite Baked Ziti Delight

Ever since I started making this baked ziti recipe, it’s been a game-changer for family dinner nights, and the flavor is what keeps everyone coming back. The hearty meat sauce, blended with bulk Italian sausage and a classic tomato sauce, pairs perfectly with tender pasta and creamy ricotta. I love adding a key fresh herb—basil in summer or rosemary in winter—but you can easily use savory, sage, thyme, or parsley for that amazing combination. The cheese on top, with its truly cheese-tastic casserole vibe, makes this dish better and oh-so-satisfying, especially when it’s baked to golden perfection.

What makes this recipe so special is how it feeds a large crowd and still leaves leftovers that taste just as amazing. My kids love to eat it and help make it, turning dinner prep into a fun, relatively low mess activity where they get involved. The basic version is great, but I’ve learned everyone has unique tricks and twists—some vary the cheeses, others leave out the meat for meatless versions, or even skip the tomato sauce for a super cheesy dish. In our house, though, the sausage and ricotta are non-negotiable for that classic comfort food feel.

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This baked ziti is the kind of food that brings people together, whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just your family. I’ve tweaked it over time, finding that the hearty sauce and tender pasta are what make it a hit. It’s so easy to adapt, letting you add your own twists while keeping the flavor bold and comforting. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this casserole is a love letter to Italian pasta dishes that’s sure to please.

Main Ingredients You’ll Need For Recipe

• 1 lb ziti pasta (or gluten-free pasta for GF option)
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade)
• 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (for extra veggies)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)

How to Make Baked Ziti

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook ziti in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes); drain and set aside.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; cook onion 3-4 minutes until soft.
• Add garlic and ground beef; cook 5-7 minutes until browned, breaking up meat. Drain excess fat.
• Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; simmer 5 minutes.
• Mix ricotta, egg, 1 cup mozzarella, and Parmesan in a bowl.
• In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half the ziti, half the meat sauce, and all the ricotta mixture.
• Top with remaining ziti, meat sauce, and 1 cup mozzarella.
• Bake 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
• Garnish with parsley; serve hot.

Pairing Your Baked Ziti Feast

Whenever I whip up a baked ziti casserole, brimming with meat, pasta, tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, I love to add a side that makes the meal shine. One of the best things about making this ziti is how easy it is to toss roasted vegetables right into the baked pasta or serve them on the side for a hearty touch. For a lighter balance, I top a large family style quinoa salad with homemade Italian vinaigrette, which adds a perfect fresh contrast. To make it better, I pair it with a crusty loaf of Italian bread, homemade garlic bread, or even a warm skillet cheese bread—each bite feels like a hug from an Italian grandma. This meal is my thing for bringing everyone together, and these sides turn it into a feast that’s just right.

You May Want to Make More Easy Recipes:-

• The Ultimate Baked Creamy Mushroom Dip Recipe
• Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
• Japanese Fried Rice Recipe
• Easy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) Recipe

FAQs:

What meat goes well with baked ziti?

Ground beef and Italian sausage are top choices for baked ziti, adding rich, savory flavor. You can also use ground turkey, chicken, or pmediocres for a lighter option.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese in baked ziti?

Instead of ricotta cheese, try cottage cheese, cream cheese, or a béchamel sauce for a creamy texture. Mascarpone or goat cheese can add a unique twist.

Is baked ziti the same as lasagna?

No, baked ziti is not the same as lasagna. Baked ziti uses ziti pasta mixed with sauce and cheese, baked in a casserole. Lasagna has layered flat noodles, sauce, and cheese, requiring more prep.

What is the best pasta to use for baked ziti?

The best pasta for baked ziti is ziti or penne due to their tubular shape, which holds sauce well. Rigatoni or mostaccioli are also great alternatives.