Baked Ziti Recipe With Ground Beef

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Introduction

Baked ziti with ground beef is a classic comfort food, beloved for its rich flavors and satisfying texture. This dish, a staple in Italian-American cuisine, gained popularity as a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for family gatherings and potlucks. Its simple preparation and customizable nature make it a go-to choice for both novice and experienced cooks. The dish’s appeal lies in its layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella, all baked to golden-brown perfection. The warmth and familiarity of baked ziti with ground beef evokes feelings of home and shared meals, making it a timeless favorite.

Ingredients

The key to a delicious baked ziti with ground beef lies in high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ziti Pasta: 1 pound. Ziti’s tube shape holds the sauce beautifully. Penne or rigatoni can be substituted.
Ground Beef: 1 pound. Use lean ground beef (80/20) for optimal flavor without excess grease. Ground turkey or Italian sausage are also excellent alternatives.
Tomato Sauce: 24-28 ounces. A good quality marinara sauce or a homemade tomato sauce forms the base.
Crushed Tomatoes: 28 ounces. Adds texture and depth of flavor.
Tomato Paste: 6 ounces. Intensifies the tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces. Provides a creamy layer. Whole milk ricotta is recommended.
Mozzarella Cheese: 8 ounces, shredded. The classic topping for a cheesy finish. Part-skim or whole milk mozzarella can be used.
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated. Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
Egg: 1 large. Binds the ricotta mixture together.
Onion: 1 medium, chopped. Adds savory flavor to the meat sauce.
Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced. Essential for Italian-inspired flavor.
Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon.
Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon.
Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons.
Fresh Parsley: For garnish (optional).

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful baked ziti. Follow these steps to streamline the cooking process and maximize flavor:
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: Chop the onion and mince the garlic. In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Combine Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste, tomato sauce, and crushed tomatoes. Add the dried oregano and dried basil. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.
3. Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside. Do not overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
4. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375F (190C).

Cooking Instructions

Now comes the fun part assembling and baking the ziti. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked ziti pasta to the meat sauce and toss to coat evenly.
2. Layer the Ingredients: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce mixture on the bottom of the dish. Top with half of the ziti and meat sauce mixture. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta. Top with the remaining ziti and meat sauce mixture. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
3. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165F (74C).
4. Rest: Let the baked ziti rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and the flavors to meld further, making it easier to slice and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Baked ziti with ground beef is a complete meal on its own, but it can be enhanced with complementary sides. Consider these serving suggestions:
Garlic Bread: A classic pairing! Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ziti.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers add a healthy and flavorful element to the meal.
Caesar Salad: Another popular choice, the creamy Caesar dressing complements the ziti nicely.
Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, pairs well with the tomato-based sauce.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Here are some tips to elevate your baked ziti and common mistakes to avoid:
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta is key, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta will become mushy.
Season Generously: Taste and adjust the seasoning of the meat sauce throughout the cooking process. Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or herbs.
Use High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the flavor of the dish. Opt for good quality tomato sauce, cheese, and ground beef.
Don’t Skip the Ricotta: The ricotta layer adds a creamy, luxurious element that is essential to the dish.
Let it Rest: Allowing the baked ziti to rest before serving is crucial for the cheese to set and the flavors to meld. Avoid cutting into it immediately after removing it from the oven.
* Prevent a Dry Ziti: Ensure there is enough sauce to coat all the pasta thoroughly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little pasta water to thin it out.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Learning the art of the baked ziti with ground beef opens doors to a world of culinary possibilities. Its robust flavors, comforting texture, and Italian-American heritage make it a dish that resonates with many. The recipe’s adaptability allows for countless variations to suit different dietary needs and preferences. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this baked ziti is sure to impress. Embrace the joy of cooking and create your own version of this classic dish. Hungry for more delicious inspiration? Discover a treasure trove of recipes and cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com and embark on your next culinary adventure!