by HangryHanna
Hate reading? ME TOO! That’s why I’ve included some videos below.
I’m thrilled to share my favorite Italian-American dish with you today! This baked ziti with ground beef is a hearty pasta casserole. It’s perfect for family dinners and potlucks.
Picture this: ziti pasta smothered in rich tomato sauce, seasoned ground beef, and a gooey cheese blend. It’s like lasagna’s laid-back cousin – easier to make but just as tasty. In about an hour, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal that serves 10.
The best part? You can make it ahead and freeze it for those busy weeknights.
Table of Contents
Exact Ingredients List (+ Possible Substitutes)
I love making baked ziti with ground beef. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 jars spaghetti sauce
- 8 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups sour cream
- 6 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Don’t worry if you’re missing something. I’ve got you covered with some substitutes. No ziti? Penne works great. Out of ground beef? Try Italian sausage or ground pork. Sour cream can be swapped for ricotta cheese. If you’re out of Italian seasoning, mix equal parts dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
The cheese blend is key to this dish’s creamy texture. Feel free to experiment with different ratios or types of cheese. Just remember, the combination of provolone, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates that perfect, gooey stretch we all love.
Instructions
I start by cooking pasta until it’s al dente. While the pasta boils, I focus on browning meat. I add ground beef to a hot pan with diced onions and seasonings. The kitchen fills with savory aromas as the meat sizzles.
Once the pasta and meat are ready, it’s time for layering casserole. I grab a baking dish and spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom. Then I add:
- A layer of pasta
- A generous scoop of meat sauce
- A sprinkle of cheese
I repeat these layers until I’ve used all the ingredients, finishing with a thick blanket of cheese on top.
For baking instructions, I preheat the oven to 350°F. The casserole goes in for about 30 minutes. I know it’s done when the cheese turns golden and bubbly. After baking, I let it rest for 10 minutes. This wait is tough, but it’s worth it! The flavors meld together, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please.
“The secret to a great baked ziti is in the layering. Each bite should have the perfect balance of pasta, sauce, and cheese.”
Tips, Tricks & Storing
I love make-ahead meals, and baked ziti is perfect for this! You can put the dish together and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This saves time on busy weeknights and lets the flavors get better.
Freezing is easy. Put the ziti together without baking, cover it well, and freeze it. When you want to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, bake it as usual for a tasty meal with little work.
Reheating baked ziti is easy. If it’s frozen, bake it covered at 350°F for about 40 minutes. Make sure the inside is at 165°F for safety. For leftovers, you can reheat single portions in the microwave.
- Use a glass baking dish for even heating
- Cover with foil to prevent drying out
- Let it rest for 5 minutes after reheating for best texture
These tips help your baked ziti stay tasty, whether you’re planning ahead or eating leftovers. It’s a great dish for busy families or anyone who loves good Italian food.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
I love trying new things with my baked ziti recipe! For a meatless version, I use sautéed mushrooms or plant-based crumbles instead of ground beef. It tastes great and is perfect for vegetarian guests. Adding smoked mozzarella or tangy goat cheese changes the flavor.
Italian herbs make the dish special. Fresh basil, oregano, or rosemary add a great smell and taste. For a healthier option, I pick whole grain pasta and lean ground turkey. Sometimes, I add spinach or zucchini for more nutrition and color.
When serving, I like to pair it with classic side dishes. A crisp green salad and warm garlic bread are perfect. For something different, try it with roasted veggies or a caprese salad. Remember, a little red pepper flakes can add a nice spice!
