Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta

Hearty Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Creamy Ricotta is a comfort food dish that you'll go back for again and again. The combination of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce makes for a meal that is sure to please the whole family. Easy, kid friendly luscious baked ziti recipe that will knock your socks off!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the Pasta:

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

3. Cook the Ground Beef:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.

4. Add the Sauce:

1. Stir in the marinara sauce, basil, and oregano (if using).
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:

In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with half of the Parmesan cheese. Set aside.

6. Assemble the Dish:

1. In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
2. Add half of the cooked ziti in an even layer.
3. Spread dollops of the ricotta mixture over the pasta.
4. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the ricotta.
5. Pour half of the remaining meat sauce over the cheese layer.
6. Repeat with the remaining ziti, ricotta, mozzarella, and sauce.
7. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.

7. Bake:

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Serve:

1. Remove from the oven and let the baked ziti cool for 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Tips:

1. For extra flavor, mix some Italian sausage with the ground beef.
2. Add sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables for a veggie-packed version.
3. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. Enjoy this comforting, cheesy baked ziti dish perfect for feeding a crowd or indulging in leftovers!