If you are searching for a comforting, flavorful meal that brings everyone to the table, this Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender pasta perfectly coated in a savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and melty mozzarella that creates a cheesy, rich, and unforgettable dinner experience. With fresh basil adding a hint of brightness, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, from the hearty ground beef that adds depth to the sauce to the creamy ricotta that balances the textures. These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create layers of flavor and gooey goodness that make this baked ziti a standout.
- 1 lb ziti pasta (or penne, or gluten-free pasta): Choose your favorite pasta shape for easy layering and perfect bite-sized pieces.
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean): Adds hearty protein and rich flavor to the sauce without too much grease.
- 1 onion, chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and savory base when browned with the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall aroma and flavor with a fragrant punch.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the meat and pasta to bring out all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice and warmth.
- 5 cups marinara sauce: The heart of the dish — rich, tangy, and perfectly seasoned tomato goodness.
- 15 ounces fresh ricotta cheese: Provides creaminess and a delicate texture contrast to the ziti and meat sauce.
- 10 fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish: Brings brightness and herbal freshness to balance the richness.
- 12 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts beautifully for that ooey-gooey cheesy layer everyone loves.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided: Adds a salty, nutty sharpness that elevates the whole dish.
How to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking your ziti or preferred pasta until just al dente. You want it firm enough to hold its shape during baking without becoming mushy. Drain thoroughly and set aside so it’s ready to absorb all the delicious sauce in the next steps.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a spacious pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onion. This step creates a savory base packed with flavor. Once the meat is cooked through, add minced garlic, salt, and pepper for an extra layer of aroma and seasoning. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about five minutes to marry all those flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Pasta, Ricotta, and Sauce
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of your 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and to add flavor from underneath. In a large bowl, mix the remaining meat sauce with the cooked pasta, fresh ricotta cheese, and chopped basil. Gently stir everything together so every piece of ziti is coated with that creamy, herby goodness.
Step 4: Layer the Baked Ziti
Begin layering your mixture in the baking dish by spreading half of the pasta blend evenly. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top. Repeat with the remaining pasta mixture and cheeses for a guaranteed cheesy, savory bake that will get golden and bubbly in the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into a preheated 350°F oven and bake uncovered for 25 minutes or until it’s bubbling and thoroughly heated. For an irresistible browned cheese topping, switch your oven to broil and give it 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 6: Cool and Garnish
Once out of the oven, allow your baked ziti to rest for about five minutes. This helps everything set so it’s easier to serve. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for that pop of color and a fresh herbal note before enjoying every delicious bite.
How to Serve Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves sprinkled on top bring an aromatic brightness that cuts through the richness. For a little extra flair and flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of quality extra virgin olive oil. A handful of finely chopped parsley also adds a lovely green contrast and mild freshness.
Side Dishes
This baked ziti pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, such as a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are excellent for scooping up any remaining sauce and cheese. Roasted or steamed veggies provide a healthy balance to this hearty main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish straight from the casserole for casual family dinners where everyone helps themselves, or portion it into individual ramekins for attractive, personalized servings at dinner parties. Top each serving with shaved Parmesan and a basil leaf to impress your guests with ease.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any uneaten baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It retains its flavor and texture well and is a perfect next-day meal.
Freezing
This baked ziti freezes beautifully! Assemble the dish as directed, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole baking dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. To maintain that fresh baked texture, add a sprinkle of extra mozzarella before reheating for a melty topping.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for this baked ziti?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and makes the dish a bit leaner. Just be sure to brown it thoroughly and adjust seasoning to taste, as turkey has a milder flavor.
Is it necessary to use ricotta cheese, or can I substitute something else?
Ricotta adds creaminess and a lovely texture, but you can substitute cottage cheese or even a blend of cream cheese and sour cream for a similar richness if needed.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes! Assemble your baked ziti then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it ideal for meal prepping or entertaining prep.
What type of marinara sauce is best to use?
Use your favorite high-quality store-bought or homemade marinara sauce. A sauce with good seasoning and a balanced tomato flavor will shine in this recipe.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta and follow the recipe as usual. The result will be just as delicious!
Final Thoughts
This Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, comfort, and irresistible flavor in every forkful. Whether for a weeknight family dinner or a festive occasion, it’s sure to become one of your go-to favorites. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how it fills your kitchen with love and amazing aromas!
Print
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
This classic Baked Ziti recipe combines tender pasta with a rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheeses, all baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for a family dinner, this comforting Italian-American casserole features layers of ziti pasta, savory ground beef marinara, and fresh basil, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan for an irresistible cheesy crust.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb ziti pasta (or penne, or gluten-free pasta)
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 5 cups marinara sauce
Cheese & Herbs
- 15 ounces fresh ricotta cheese
- 10 fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 12 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Meat Sauce: In a large pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown ground beef and chopped onion until fully cooked and softened. Add minced garlic, salt, and black pepper, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in marinara sauce, bring to a simmer, and cook for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the remaining meat sauce, chopped basil, ricotta cheese, and cooked pasta. Stir gently to coat all the pasta evenly with the mixture.
- Layer and Bake: Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta mixture and cheeses.
- Bake and Brown: Bake the assembled dish at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes until bubbly and heated through. For a golden browned cheese topping, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm for a comforting, cheesy meal.
Notes
- You can substitute penne or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
- For added flavor, consider mixing in Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes in the meat sauce.
- Letting the baked ziti rest before serving helps it set and makes slicing easier.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Broiling the cheese at the end is optional but adds a nice crispy top layer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
