Here’s a delicious recipe for Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ziti pasta (or any similar pasta)
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Ziti Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the ziti pasta according to the package directions (usually about 9–11 minutes) until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Beef Sauce:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened (about 3–4 minutes).
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the pan. Cook and crumble the beef until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup), and the Parmesan cheese. Stir until well blended. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the Baked Ziti:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef sauce. Stir to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- In a 9×13-inch (or similar size) baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture.
- Spoon the ricotta mixture over the pasta layer, spreading it evenly.
- Top with the remaining pasta mixture, spreading it out evenly in the dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Serve:
- Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
Enjoy your delicious, hearty baked ziti with ground beef and ricotta!
This recipe can also be made ahead of time. Simply assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 1 day before baking. You can also freeze it before baking for a future meal!
