Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta

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When I pull a bubbling tray of baked ziti out of the oven, it’s impossible not to feel a rush of comfort. The golden, cheesy top, the savory meat sauce peeking between layers of perfectly cooked pasta, and the creamy surprise of ricotta in each bite—this dish is everything I love about Italian-American comfort food. I grew up watching my mom whip this up for Sunday dinners, and now it’s the one recipe I turn to when I need to feed a crowd or just want to indulge in something warm and hearty.

The beauty of baked ziti is its balance. You get the rich depth of a tomato and beef ragu, the creamy tang of ricotta, and the stretchy gooeyness of melted mozzarella all in one dish. I like mine with a generous topping of fresh basil right out of the oven. It not only smells amazing but brings just the right pop of color to the table.

What I love most is how forgiving this recipe is. Whether you’re using fresh marinara you simmered all afternoon or your favorite jar from the pantry, this dish always delivers. It’s a go-to for meal prep, family dinners, or when I want to gift someone a homemade meal. The leftovers are just as good, maybe even better. If you’re craving more weeknight-friendly pasta recipes, check out my creamy Tuscan sausage pasta or this fan-favorite shipwreck dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta

This baked ziti stands out for its rich, comforting layers and unbeatable ease. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to get it just right. The beef and marinara sauce come together quickly while the pasta boils. Ricotta brings a soft creaminess that balances the savory meat perfectly, and once it all bakes under that golden layer of cheese, it transforms into a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re feeding kids, hosting a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this dish checks every box. It’s hearty without being heavy, cheesy but not greasy, and simple yet impressive. If you love lasagna but want something quicker and less fussy, baked ziti is your answer.

How to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta

Step 1: Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta until al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the ground beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Make the meat sauce
Add your favorite marinara sauce to the cooked beef and stir well. Simmer for 5 to 10 minutes so the flavors can come together.

Step 4: Mix the ricotta filling
In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with a beaten egg, a pinch of salt, and a little grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until creamy.

Step 5: Layer the casserole
In a large baking dish, spread a bit of meat sauce on the bottom. Then layer half of the cooked ziti, dollops of the ricotta mixture, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and half of the meat sauce. Repeat with the remaining pasta, ricotta, sauce, and mozzarella.

Step 6: Bake
Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you want to switch things up, there are endless variations. Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor profile. You can also go vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.

Ricotta can be swapped with cottage cheese if you want a lighter texture, and feel free to try different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a twist. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy Italian sausage instead of beef. This dish is super customizable, so don’t be afraid to make it your own.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta is a dish that holds its own, but a few thoughtful pairings can take your meal to the next level. I like to serve mine with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette or creamy Caesar dressing. The freshness of the greens balances the richness of the ziti perfectly.

For bread lovers, warm garlic bread or a buttery baguette is a must. It’s perfect for scooping up every bit of sauce and cheese left on the plate. If you’re entertaining, a glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot pairs beautifully with the tomato-based sauce.

Want to keep it simple? Serve it with steamed or roasted broccoli, or even some sautéed spinach with garlic and lemon for a veggie boost that doesn’t overshadow the main attraction.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover baked ziti is a gift that keeps on giving. Let it cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To reheat, you can pop individual portions in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes. For best results, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. To reheat larger portions, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 to 20 minutes.

You can also freeze baked ziti. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat as above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add 10 extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese is a great substitute. It’s lighter and has a similar creamy texture, though slightly different in flavor.

Do I have to cook the pasta before baking?

Yes, the pasta should be cooked until al dente before assembling the dish. It won’t fully cook just in the oven.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or even rotini all work well. Just make sure the pasta can hold sauce and cheese.

How do I prevent my ziti from drying out?

Make sure to use enough sauce and cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking. That helps trap moisture and prevents the top from drying out too soon.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved this Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta, you’re in for a treat with other comforting, cheesy pasta dishes on my site. One that stands out is the Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta—rich, garlicky, and full of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. It’s just as hearty and comforting but comes together on the stovetop in under 30 minutes.

For another family-friendly baked meal, try my Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach. It combines juicy shrimp with melty cheese and vibrant greens for a dinner that’s both luxurious and easy to make.

And if you want a fun twist on traditional casseroles, the Shipwreck Dinner is a one-pan wonder that layers beef, potatoes, and veggies in a rich tomato base. It’s a weeknight staple that satisfies just like baked ziti does.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this baked ziti made your dinner table a hit, don’t forget to pin it for later on your Pinterest board! That way, it’s always ready when you need a crowd-pleasing, cheesy, feel-good dish.

Also, share it with your friends and family on Facebook or send it via text to someone who loves easy comfort food. And if you give it a try, tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your delicious creations!

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