Beefy Baked Ziti Casserole

Nothing beats the comforting, cheesy goodness of a Beefy Baked Ziti Casserole. This hearty dish combines tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and three layers of creamy cheeses with savory browned ground beef. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and full of flavor. Let’s dive into why this classic baked pasta recipe works every time and how you can make it your own.

Why It Works Every Time

The magic of the Beefy Baked Ziti Casserole lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The ground beef adds a savory depth, while the blend of crushed tomatoes and marinara sauce creates a rich, slightly tangy base that coats every noodle. Layers of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese melt together to form a luscious, gooey topping that bakes to golden perfection. Using ziti pasta works wonderfully because its tube shape traps sauce and cheese inside, making each bite a delicious surprise. Plus, baking the casserole allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the top to crisp slightly without drying out the dish.

What You’ll Gather

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 package (16 ounces) ziti pasta
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large pot – for boiling the pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan – to brown the ground beef and sauté onions and garlic
• Large mixing bowl – to combine pasta, cheese, and sauce
• 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for the casserole
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring
• Colander – to drain cooked pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy

Beefy Baked Ziti Casserole: How It’s Done

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it starts to brown, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and marinara sauce. Stir in dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and beef-tomato sauce mixture. Stir until the pasta is well coated.

Step 6: Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture evenly. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese over the pasta, then sprinkle with one cup of shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan. Repeat with the remaining pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness!

Ingredient Flex Options

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
• Mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Replace ricotta with cottage cheese if preferred.
• Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Pro Perspective

For best results, don’t overcook the pasta during boiling; it will continue to cook in the oven and you want it to hold its shape. When layering the ricotta, use a spoon to dollop it rather than spreading, so you get pockets of creamy cheese throughout. Lastly, covering the casserole during the initial baking time helps retain moisture, while uncovering at the end allows the cheese to brown and develop that irresistible crust.

Prep Ahead & Store

This Beefy Baked Ziti Casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it a day ahead, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. It also freezes beautifully—just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Beefy Baked Ziti Casserole Q&A

Can I use a different type of pasta besides ziti?

Absolutely! Penne or rigatoni work just as well because their tubular shapes hold sauce and cheese nicely, giving you that classic baked ziti texture and flavor.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or stir in some chopped jalapeños when sautéing the onions and garlic. You can also use a spicy marinara sauce for an extra kick.

Is it okay to prepare the casserole completely ahead of time?

Yes! You can fully assemble the casserole and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I substitute mozzarella with another cheese?

While mozzarella provides great meltiness, you can substitute it with provolone, fontina, or even a mild cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Desserts to Finish

• Baked Three Cheese Ziti Supreme pairs beautifully with a light, fruity dessert.
• Try a classic tiramisu or panna cotta to keep the Italian theme going.
• For something quick, a scoop of vanilla gelato or sorbet refreshes the palate.
• Chocolate lava cake is a rich and indulgent way to end the meal.

Save & Share

If you love this Beefy Baked Ziti Casserole, save the recipe for your next cozy dinner and share it with friends who appreciate hearty, cheesy comfort food. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. For those who enjoy variations, you might also want to check out the Baked Ziti With Italian Sausage And Cheese or the Cheesy Taco Beef Pasta Bake for some delicious twists on baked pasta dishes.

Enjoy every cheesy, beefy bite of this timeless casserole!

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