Easy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef – Cheesy, Comforting & Family-Friendly Dinner!

Table of Contents: Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

The Ultimate Comfort Food That Will Have Everyone Asking for Seconds!

Picture this: a bubbling dish of tender ziti pasta smothered in rich marinara sauce, savory ground beef, and layers of melted cheese so gooey it stretches with every bite. This Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table—no fancy skills required, just pure, cheesy comfort.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or craving a hearty Italian-inspired dish, this recipe delivers. It’s faster than lasagna but just as satisfying, and the best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.

If you loved my Easy Ground Turkey Chili Recipe – Healthy & Flavorful Dinner Idea!, you’ll adore this baked ziti—it’s like its even cheesier, more indulgent cousin. Ready to dig in? Let’s get cooking!

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What Is Baked Ziti with Ground Beef?

Ever wonder why it’s called baked ziti and not, say, “baked penne” or “baked rigatoni”? Well, ziti pasta—those smooth, tube-shaped noodles—are the star of this dish, holding onto every bit of sauce and cheese like a flavor sponge. And when you add seasoned ground beef into the mix? Pure magic.

Some say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this dish proves it. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with layers of cheesy goodness that make it impossible to resist. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—whether you’re serving picky kids or hosting a potluck, this dish never disappoints.

So, grab your baking dish and let’s make a meal that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds).

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Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

1. Cheesy, Comforting, and Irresistible

This dish is the definition of comfort food—tender pasta, savory beef, and a triple-cheese combo (mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan) that melts into pure perfection. Every bite is creamy, rich, and loaded with flavor.

2. Budget-Friendly & Easy to Make

Skip the takeout—this homemade version costs a fraction of restaurant prices and tastes even better. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have dinner on the table in under an hour.

3. Family-Approved & Freezer-Friendly

Kids and adults alike will devour this meal. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. If you loved my Easy Beef Lasagna, this baked ziti is its quicker, just-as-delicious cousin.

Ready to make the best baked ziti of your life? Let’s do this!

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How to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Quick Overview

This dish comes together in three simple steps: cook the beef, mix with sauce and pasta, layer with cheese, and bake until golden. In under an hour, you’ll have a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Key Ingredients

– 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
– 16 oz ziti pasta (or penne if you can’t find ziti)
– 24 oz marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 15 oz ricotta cheese (for creaminess)
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella (for that perfect melt)
– ½ cup grated Parmesan (for a salty, nutty kick)
– 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, salt & pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta – Boil ziti until al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef – In a skillet, cook ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat, then stir in marinara sauce.
3. Mix It Up – In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, beef sauce, and ricotta cheese.
4. Layer & Bake – Spread half the mixture in a greased 9×13 dish, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan, then repeat.
5. Bake to Perfection – Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Remove foil, bake 10 more minutes until bubbly and golden.

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What to Serve with Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

This dish is a meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, try pairing it with:
– Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
– Caesar Salad – A crisp, tangy contrast to the rich pasta.
– Roasted Vegetables – Like zucchini or broccoli for a healthy side.
– Red Wine – A bold Cabernet or Chianti complements the flavors beautifully.

For more side dish ideas, check out my dinner recipes.

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Top Tips for Perfecting Baked Ziti

– Undercook the Pasta – It will soften more while baking, so aim for al dente.
– Use Full-Fat Cheese – Low-fat versions don’t melt as well.
– Let It Rest – Wait 5-10 minutes before serving so the layers set.
– Add Spinach – For extra veggies, mix in chopped spinach with the ricotta.

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Storing and Reheating Tips

– Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
– Freezer – Freeze unbaked or baked ziti for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
– Reheating – Microwave single portions or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

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People Also Ask: Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

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Conclusion: Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

This Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a guaranteed hit—easy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this dish delivers every time.

Try it tonight, and don’t forget to leave a comment below telling me how it turned out! For more comforting pasta recipes, check out my Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Happy cooking!

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