Craving a comforting meal that’s quick and easy to make? This Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a family favorite that never disappoints.
With layers of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, gooey cheese blend, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.
Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that everyone will love!
Steps
- Preheat your oven and prepare a 9 x 9 baking dish by greasing it lightly. If you plan to make more, prepare additional dishes as needed.
- Cook your ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Mix ricotta cheese with sour cream and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl. This will form a creamy mixture for layering.
- If using homemade sauce, add sweet Italian sausage to enhance the flavor. Alternatively, use a jar of vodka sauce for a different taste.
- Layer half of the cooked ziti in the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta.
- Pour a portion of your chosen sauce over the ricotta layer. Repeat with the remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, and sauce.
- Sprinkle a shredded provolone-mozzarella cheese mix generously over the top for a cheesy crust.
- Add fresh basil leaves and a sprig as garnish to enhance the flavor and presentation.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the baked ziti rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your homemade meal!
Ingredients
- Ziti pasta
- Homemade sauce with sweet Italian sausage (or vodka sauce)
- Ricotta cheese
- Sour cream
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (5-6 leaves per dish)
- Provolone-mozzarella shredded cheese mix
- Aluminum foil (for covering)
FAQ
- Can I use different types of cheese in baked ziti?
- Absolutely! Mixing different kinds of grated cheese, such as Parmesan, provolone, and mozzarella, can enhance the flavor of your baked ziti. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to suit your taste.
- What can I do if I run out of homemade pasta sauce?
- If you run out of homemade sauce, you can use store-bought alternatives like vodka sauce. It can add a unique flavor to your dish and still result in a delicious meal.
- How do I prevent baked ziti from drying out?
- To keep your baked ziti moist, cover the dish with aluminum foil during baking. This helps retain moisture and ensures the pasta doesn’t dry out.
- Can I add fresh herbs to baked ziti?
- Yes, adding fresh herbs like basil can elevate the taste of your baked ziti. Simply incorporate a few leaves into the dish or use them as a garnish for added flavor.
- Is it possible to prepare baked ziti in advance?
- You can certainly prepare baked ziti ahead of time. Assemble the dish and cover it with foil, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a convenient meal option for busy days.
Tips
- Mix different cheeses: Don’t be afraid to mix various grated cheeses like Parmesan, provolone, and mozzarella with your ricotta and sour cream to create a richer, creamier texture.
- Use fresh herbs: Incorporate fresh basil leaves into your dish for added flavor, and use a sprig as garnish to enhance the presentation.
- Cover with foil: When baking, cover your dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture and ensure the pasta stays deliciously tender.
- Experiment with sauces: Try using different sauces like vodka sauce for a unique twist on the traditional baked ziti, adding depth and variety to your meal.
Equipment
- 9 x 9 Pyrex baking dishes
- Aluminum foil (if you don’t already have it)
- Cheese grater (if you plan to grate fresh Parmesan or other cheeses yourself and don’t have one already)
- Herb scissors or herb stripper (to easily prepare fresh basil, if not already owned)
