If comfort food had a champion, it would be this Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe. Imagine layers of perfectly al dente pasta mingling with a rich, savory ground beef marinara, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella that come together in a glorious, bubbling bake. This dish is pure soul food, delivering warm, hearty flavors with every forkful. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or wanting something to savor throughout the week, this baked ziti hits all the right notes—cheesy, meaty, and utterly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, contributing to the savory depths, creamy textures, or fresh pops of flavor that make this baked ziti so irresistible. The list is straightforward, yet every component is essential for that perfectly balanced dish.
- 1 lb ziti pasta: The classic tubular pasta shape traps sauce beautifully and holds up well in the bake.
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean): Provides hearty, savory flavor without too much excess fat.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth that elevates the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat.
- 5 cups marinara sauce: The heart of the dish, providing acidity and richness.
- 15 ounces fresh ricotta cheese: Gives a luscious, creamy texture that softens the bite.
- 10 fresh basil leaves, chopped: Offers brightness and a fresh herbal note.
- 12 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts into gooey, stretchy layers of indulgence.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided: Adds salty, nutty complexity and creates a golden crust.
How to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling the ziti in generously salted water until it reaches al dente—tender but still firm to the bite. This texture is critical because the pasta will finish cooking in the oven, absorbing all those delicious flavors without turning mushy. Drain and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large pan or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion over medium-high heat. This builds a flavorful base with the caramelized onions and savory beef. Add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper, sautéing for another minute to release those fragrant oils. Pour in the marinara sauce and let everything simmer for 5 minutes, melding the flavors together beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients for the Bake
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add seasoning right under the pasta. In a separate large bowl, gently mix the remaining meat sauce with the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and chopped fresh basil. This combination ensures every bite is creamy, herby, and perfectly sauced.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Layer half of the pasta mixture in the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Repeat the layers one more time. This layering creates that signature texture contrast between creamy cheese, tender pasta, and rich meat sauce baked to bubbly perfection.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish into a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for about 25 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbling all over. For a gorgeous golden crust, finish under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, but watch closely so it doesn’t burn. The bubbling, browned cheese on top is the ultimate reward.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Let your baked ziti cool for about 5 minutes to set and make portioning a breeze. Garnish with some extra fresh basil for color and a pop of fresh flavor. Now your Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe is ready to wow everyone at the table!
How to Serve Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or a few torn leaves brightens up the richness and adds a fresh, aromatic note. You can also dust the top with a little extra grated Parmesan for that salty finish that keeps bringing you back for more.
Side Dishes
This baked ziti pairs beautifully with crisp, green salads tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is another classic side to mop up every last bit of sauce and cheese. Roasted veggies, like asparagus or broccoli, make a lovely colorful contrast and bring some healthy balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style feast, serve the ziti in the baking dish so everyone can help themselves. If you want to impress guests, portion it onto plates and drizzle with a little high-quality extra virgin olive oil or balsamic glaze. You might also stuff the baked ziti mixture into hollowed-out bell peppers for an eye-catching twist that’s perfect for individual servings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked ziti keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld, making the next day’s meal even tastier. Just reheat gently to bring back that melty, luscious texture.
Freezing
This baked ziti freezes beautifully—ideal if you want to prepare ahead. Cool completely, then cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal, but for the best results, warm in a 350°F oven covered with foil so it doesn’t dry out, about 15-20 minutes. Remove the foil in the last few minutes if you want to refresh that cheesy crust.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional ziti is best for capturing sauce, penne or rigatoni work wonderfully as well. If you prefer gluten-free, just swap in your favorite brand for a delicious gluten-free baked ziti.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute to keep that hearty texture and savoriness. The cheeses and marinara still provide plenty of rich flavor.
Can I prepare this dish in advance and bake later?
Definitely. You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting cold.
What type of ricotta cheese should I use?
Fresh whole-milk ricotta is ideal for creaminess and flavor, but part-skim ricotta works fine if you prefer a lighter option. Avoid ricotta that’s too watery to keep the layers from getting soggy.
How do I get a nice crispy top on my baked ziti?
After baking, switch your oven to broil and cook the dish uncovered for 1 to 2 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning, and you’ll get that irresistibly golden, bubbly cheese crust.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of digging into a warm, cheesy, deeply satisfying Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe. It’s a classic that feels homemade and special all at once. Trust me, once you try making this recipe, it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your rotation. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready for some seriously delicious comfort food magic.
Print
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, Ricotta, and Mozzarella Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This classic Baked Ziti recipe combines tender al dente pasta with a rich, savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, baked to bubbly perfection. A comforting and flavorful Italian-American casserole perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
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 the ziti in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: In a large pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onion until meat is no longer pink and onion is translucent. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in marinara sauce, bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Assemble Pasta Mixture: 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 leaves, ricotta cheese, and the cooked pasta. Gently stir to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top. Repeat the layering with the remaining pasta mixture and cheeses.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled ziti for 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end to brown and crisp the cheese topping.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked ziti to cool for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and increase the marinara or add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking chilled.
- Using gluten-free pasta makes this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet without compromising taste.
- Feel free to substitute part or all of the ground beef with Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Allowing the casserole to rest slightly after baking helps the cheese set and makes it easier to serve.
