Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a classic, hearty pasta dish that’s all about layers of cheesy goodness, tender pasta, and flavorful beef. It’s a simple mix of ziti pasta, rich tomato sauce, seasoned ground beef, and plenty of melted cheese that comes together in one warm, comforting casserole.
I love making this whenever I want something that feels like a big, cozy hug in a bowl. The best part for me is how the cheese browns on top, giving the dish a little crispy, golden edge that’s impossible to resist. It’s also a great recipe for feeding a crowd or making ahead, since it tastes even better the next day.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy baked ziti is with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad to balance out all that cheesy richness. This dish always brings people together around the table, and I find it’s perfect comfort food for any day of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ziti pasta: This pasta holds sauce well with its tube shape. If you don’t have ziti, penne is an easy swap with very similar texture.
Ground beef: Ground beef adds rich, meaty flavor. For a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, use cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Ricotta cheese: It adds creaminess and balances the tomato sauce. Cottage cheese works as a budget-friendly substitute but blend it for smoother texture.
Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses: Mozzarella provides gooey meltiness; Parmesan adds sharpness and depth. You can mix part mozzarella with provolone or fontina for variety.
Marinara sauce: Store-bought saves time, but a homemade tomato sauce with garlic and herbs is great too. If you like it spicy, add extra red pepper flakes.
How Do I Layer and Bake Ziti for Perfect Texture and Flavor?
Layering ensures every bite has pasta, sauce, and cheese. Here’s how:
- Start with a greased baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Spread half the pasta and meat sauce mix evenly—this keeps it moist.
- Sprinkle mozzarella over this layer for melty cheese pockets inside.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture as a second layer, then top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil to keep moisture in for the first 20 minutes.
- Remove foil near the end to let the cheese brown and get bubbly.
- Let the baked ziti rest after baking so it firms up a bit for easy serving.
Following these steps helps the flavors blend well while keeping the bake creamy inside and with a golden crust on top.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta; you want plenty of water to cook it evenly without sticking.
- Skillet or frying pan – perfect for browning ground beef and sautéing onions and garlic in one pan.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – roomy enough for layering the pasta, sauce, and cheese for even baking.
- Mixing bowl – to combine pasta, sauce, and ricotta cheese smoothly before layering.
- Aluminum foil – to cover the dish and keep moisture locked in while baking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the meat sauce and pasta without scratching your cookware.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to add a spicy, herby kick to the dish.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and a nice texture contrast.
- Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your baked ziti.
- Try a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese for a different melty cheese flavor.
How to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Meat:
- 1 pound ziti pasta (penne can be used as a substitute)
- 1 pound ground beef
Vegetables and Sauces:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce (optional, for more sauce)
Seasonings and Cheeses:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Others:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Total time is about 45 minutes. You’ll spend 10-15 minutes cooking the pasta and preparing the sauce on the stove, then 30 minutes baking the ziti in the oven, including resting time before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until it’s just tender (al dente). Drain and put it aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for about 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the marinara sauce, optional extra tomato sauce, oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer on low for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Mix and Layer:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese. Stir well to mix everything evenly. Spread half of this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, then cover with the last of the mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake and Serve:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Once done, let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before scooping it out. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if you like, and serve warm.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the ground beef before cooking. Thaw it safely in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess liquid in the sauce.
Can I Make Baked Ziti Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and keep it in the fridge. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or use the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Baked Ziti?
Yes! Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can boost nutrition and flavor. Sauté the veggies first to remove excess moisture, then mix them into the pasta and sauce before baking.