Ultimate Guide to Cheesy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Baked Ziti with Ground Beef: A Cheesy and Satisfying Side Dish Option

When it comes to comfort food, baked ziti with ground beef is a classic choice that never fails to satisfy. This hearty dish combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese in a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or looking for a delicious side dish to bring to a potluck, baked ziti with ground beef is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make baked ziti with ground beef, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 pound of ziti pasta
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup of tomato sauce
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make delicious baked ziti with ground beef:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a large baking dish, layer the cooked ziti, beef mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer of cheese.
7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let the baked ziti with ground beef cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Why You'll Love Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Baked ziti with ground beef is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes. You can add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to amp up the nutritional content. The cheesy goodness of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese adds a luxurious touch, making this dish feel indulgent and satisfying. Whether you're a fan of traditional Italian cuisine or simply looking for a hearty and delicious meal, baked ziti with ground beef is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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