Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta is a delicious, hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. This comforting meal combines tender pasta, savory beef, and creamy cheeses, all baked to perfection for a satisfying experience. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is sure to impress!
Why make this recipe?
Baked Ziti is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can make it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve, making it ideal for busy nights. Plus, the combination of flavors from the ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta makes each bite a pleasure. It’s a dish that brings everyone together and fills your home with a lovely aroma. 🍝
How to prepare Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta
Preparing Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these steps to create a wonderful meal that your whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti pasta 🍝
- 1 pound ground beef 🍖
- 2 cups marinara sauce 🍅
- 1 cup ricotta cheese 🧀
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1 onion, chopped 🧅
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 🌿
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional) 🌱
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 🔥
- Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. 💧
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft. 🥘
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. 🍲
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Mix well. 🥄
- Layer half of the pasta mixture in a greased baking dish, followed by half of the meat sauce. Repeat with the remaining pasta and sauce. Top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. 🧑🍳
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. 🕒
- Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm! 🍽️
How to serve Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta
Serve the baked ziti hot from the oven, paired with a simple side salad and some garlic bread. This dish is great for sharing, so you might want to have additional plates ready for seconds! 🍽️
How to store Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta
To store leftovers, let the baked ziti cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving! ❄️
Tips for preparing Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta
- For a little extra flavor, consider adding your favorite veggies, such as spinach or bell peppers, to the meat sauce.
- If you want to spice things up, add some red pepper flakes for a kick! 🌶️
- You can use different types of cheese based on your preference, such as cheddar or gouda. 🧀
Variations
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or a meat substitute.
- You can also make a lighter version using whole wheat ziti and low-fat cheeses.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Baked Ziti ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! While ziti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni.
Q: How do I reheat leftover Baked Ziti?
A: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual servings until hot.
Now you have a delightful recipe to enjoy time and time again! Happy cooking! 🍽️