Description

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food, featuring layers of al dente pasta, savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and a gooey cheese topping. This hearty dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Its delightful aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table for a warm and satisfying meal that evokes nostalgia and creates new memories.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz ziti pasta
1 lb lean ground beef
3 cups marinara sauce
15 oz ricotta cheese
3 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil salted water in a large pot.
Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Stir in marinara sauce and let simmer for about five minutes.
In a baking dish, layer half of the ziti, half of the ricotta cheese, and half of the meat sauce. Repeat layering and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving; garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 420
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - Add Italian herbs or crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for extra flavor.- Substitute ground turkey or sausage for a different protein option.- To make ahead, assemble but do not bake; refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.