Cheesy Baked Ziti with Beef and Ricotta

Cheesy Baked Ziti with Beef and Ricotta is a hearty, comforting Italian dish that is perfect for family dinners. Tender pasta is layered with savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and lots of melted cheese. The tomato sauce adds rich flavor, and baking it makes the top golden and bubbly. This dish is easy to prepare, filling, and loved by kids and adults alike. It’s the ultimate comfort food for weeknights or special occasions.

Cooking Time & Prep Time

Prep Time: 15–20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta (or penne)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or tomato pasta sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Tip: Slightly undercooking the pasta is fine because it will cook more in the oven.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Seasoning

Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors combine.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Ricotta

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese. Add the beef and sauce mixture and stir until evenly combined.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
Tip: For a crispier top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching carefully.

Step 7: Serve

Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace ground beef with mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the sauce is gluten-free.
• Extra Cheese: Add provolone or fontina for a richer flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake when ready; you may need to add a few extra minutes to cooking time.
• Add Veggies: Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers work well to make it more nutritious.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

Values may vary depending on pasta type, cheese amounts, and sauce used.

Health Benefits

This dish provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats. Ground beef offers high-quality protein and iron. Ricotta cheese adds calcium and healthy fats. Tomato sauce is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, especially lycopene, which supports heart health. Adding vegetables can increase fiber and vitamins, making it a more balanced meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cheesy Baked Ziti with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. It also pairs well with a side of sautéed spinach or a light tomato soup. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave. Freezing is also an option—cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Ziti with Beef and Ricotta is a comforting, hearty, and easy-to-make dish that will satisfy everyone at the table. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep. Try this recipe today and share it with loved ones—they’ll love every cheesy, delicious bite!