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Delicious baked ziti with ground beef topped with melted cheese

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Baked ziti with ground beef is a hearty pasta casserole combining seasoned beef, tomato sauce, and cheeses, baked until bubbly and golden. It's perfect for a family dinner!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 servings
Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Baked Ziti

  • 400 g ziti or penne pasta Best pasta for this dish.
  • 1 lb Ground beef Can replace with crumbled tempeh for vegetarian option.
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes Adjust to preference for spice.
  • 24 fl oz Marinara sauce Add a splash of pasta water for better texture.
  • 15 oz Ricotta cheese Mixes well with egg for a creamy layer.
  • 1 large Egg Helps hold the ricotta layer together.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese Use more for extra cheesiness.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Used for topping.
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil For cooking onions and garlic.
  • 1 small Onion Cook until softened.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Add after onions are softened.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, then add minced garlic.
  • Add ground beef with salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Cook until browned, then drain excess grease.
  • Stir in the marinara sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes.
  • In a bowl, mix the ricotta, egg, grated Parmesan and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  • In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with about 1 cup of the meat sauce.

Assembly and Baking

  • In the greased baking dish, layer the pasta, ricotta dollops, remaining meat sauce, and 2 cups of shredded mozzarella.
  • Finish with a layer of remaining mozzarella and the extra Parmesan cheese.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  • Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For variations, consider using crumbled tempeh for a vegetarian option or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs. Ensure to rest the dish after baking for cleaner slices.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 32gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 12gSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6g
Keyword Baked Ziti, Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Ground Beef, Pasta Casserole
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