Description
Looking for the best baked ziti ideas? This one is quick, easy, and loaded with melty cheese and savory beef! Whether you want a healthy comfort meal or a simple dinner idea, this baked ziti is the perfect easy solution. It’s great for holidays, potlucks, or cozy weeknights. Freezer-friendly, family-approved, and a total crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar marinara sauce (about 24 oz)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Boil ziti until al dente, then drain.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onions until soft. Add garlic and ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir marinara sauce into the meat and simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
- Spread a little meat sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add half of the pasta, half of the ricotta mixture, and a layer of mozzarella. Repeat layers.
- Top with remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly, garnish with basil, and serve.
Notes
- You can prep it a day ahead and bake later.
- Swap ricotta for cottage cheese if desired.
- Use penne or rigatoni if you don’t have ziti.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American