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Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

A generous serving of baked ziti with ground beef, showing melted cheese stretching from the pasta.
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A classic, cheesy baked ziti with ground beef, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion, and cook until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain off any excess grease.
  4. Stir in minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the drained ziti, meat sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir to combine.
  7. Spread half of the ziti mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  8. Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the ziti.
  9. Top with the remaining ziti mixture.
  10. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
  11. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  12. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • This dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through.
  • For a smoother sauce, you can blend the crushed tomatoes before adding them to the skillet.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cutcooktaste.com/baked-ziti-with-ground-beef/