Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a classic comfort food dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with the richness of a meaty sauce and a blend of delicious cheeses. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or potlucks, as it is both filling and incredibly satisfying. With layers of ziti pasta, seasoned ground beef, creamy sour cream, and gooey cheeses baked to golden perfection, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. The best part? It can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping or entertaining guests.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 pound dry ziti pasta
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 (26-ounce) jars spaghetti sauce
• 6 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
• 1 ½ cups sour cream
• 6 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Steps on How to Make It

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the Ziti: Add the 1 pound of dry ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. Sauté Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Cook the Beef: Add the 1 pound of lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Add Sauce: Stir in the 2 jars of spaghetti sauce and let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: In a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches), spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
3. Layer the Pasta: Add half of the cooked ziti pasta over the sauce.
4. Add Cheese and Sour Cream: Spread half of the 1 ½ cups of sour cream over the pasta, followed by half of the 6 ounces of provolone cheese slices.
5. Repeat Layers: Pour half of the remaining meat sauce over this layer, then repeat the layering process with the remaining pasta, sour cream, provolone cheese, and meat sauce.

Step 4: Top with Mozzarella and Parmesan

1. Add Final Cheese Layer: Top the final layer with the 6 ounces of shredded mozzarella cheese and 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. This will create a beautiful cheesy crust as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake the Ziti

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, spray the foil with cooking spray). Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
2. Uncover and Bake Again: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

1. Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to slice and serve.
2. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 25 g
• Fat: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 800 mg

This dish provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a satisfying meal option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily swap out the ground beef for a meat substitute or additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. What can I serve with baked ziti?

Baked ziti pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it with a light soup to start the meal.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or bake in the oven until heated through.

5. Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes! Baked ziti freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips for Making the Perfect Baked Ziti

1. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, it’s essential to cook it al dente to avoid mushiness in the final dish.
2. Customize the Cheese: Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Ricotta can be added for a creamier texture, or you can use sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
3. Season the Meat: Don’t forget to season the meat while cooking! Adding Italian seasoning or garlic powder can enhance the overall flavor of your sauce.
4. Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the baked ziti towards the end of the cooking time to prevent the cheese from burning.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Leftover baked ziti can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
• Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze baked ziti wrapped tightly. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a delightful dish that encapsulates the warmth and comfort of homemade cooking. With its rich flavors, cheesy layers, and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this baked ziti is an easy and fulfilling option that everyone will love. Prepare it ahead of time, and bask in the compliments as your loved ones enjoy every delicious bite!