Ultimate Ground Beef Baked Ziti Recipe for Dinner

Indulge in the ultimate ground beef baked ziti for a comforting dinner.

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Ultimate Ground Beef Baked Ziti Recipe for Dinner

This Ultimate Ground Beef Baked Ziti recipe is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for a comforting dinner. It’s easy to make and packed with delicious flavors that will leave everyone satisfied.

Ingredients and Quantities:

For 1 Person:

• 1/2 cup ground beef
• 1 cup ziti pasta
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For 3 People:

• 1 1/2 cups ground beef
• 3 cups ziti pasta
• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
• 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Level: Easy
• Cuisine Type: Italian

Step by Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the ground beef in a skillet until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
4. Combine the cooked beef, pasta, marinara sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why People Love It:

This Ultimate Ground Beef Baked Ziti recipe is loved for its hearty and comforting flavors. It’s a satisfying meal that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Best Occasions to Make It:

It’s great for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving a cozy and delicious pasta dish.

Tips for Serving:

Pair this dish with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories per Serving: 400
• Carbs: 30g
• Protein: 20g
• Gluten Content: Contains gluten

Pro Tip:

For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu or cooked lentils for a delicious twist on this classic recipe.

Ultimate Ground Beef Baked Ziti Recipe for Dinner

How to Make It More Healthy

To make this recipe healthier, you can use lean ground beef or turkey instead of regular ground beef. You can also add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to increase the nutritional value.

Country of Origin

The original Baked Ziti recipe is believed to have originated in Italy.

Best Time to Make It

Baked Ziti is best enjoyed as a hearty dinner meal.

The Inspiration Behind the Recipe

The inspiration behind this Ultimate Ground Beef Baked Ziti recipe comes from the classic Italian dish but with a twist of adding ground beef for extra flavor and protein.

Best Way to Store

Leftover Baked Ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

5 Things to Avoid While Making the Recipe

1. Avoid overcooking the pasta
2. Avoid using too much salt
3. Avoid using low-quality cheese
4. Avoid overcrowding the baking dish
5. Avoid skipping the seasoning

5 Tricks When You Cook It

• Use fresh herbs for added flavor
• Brown the ground beef for a richer taste
• Layer the ingredients for even distribution
• Cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out
• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving

How to Make It Gluten-Free

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta instead of regular ziti noodles. Double-check all other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

How to Make It Dairy-Free

To make this recipe dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese substitutes like vegan mozzarella or nutritional yeast. You can also omit the cheese entirely and add more herbs for flavor.

5 Common Questions with Answers

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
2. Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter version of this dish.
3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
4. You can add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos for some heat.
5. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
6. Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.

How to Add Special Addition

To make this Ultimate Ground Beef Baked Ziti even more special, try adding a layer of creamy ricotta cheese mixed with fresh basil between the pasta layers for a burst of flavor.