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Cheesy Italian Ground Beef Baked Ziti

This Cheesy Italian Ground Beef Baked Ziti is pure comfort food that brings families together around the table with its cheesy layers and rich tomato sauce.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef Look for 80% lean meat.
  • 1 onion chopped onion
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 jar 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 12 oz ziti pasta
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish to prepare for the baked ziti.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until everything turns golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let mixture simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.
  4. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
  5. Combine the drained pasta, ricotta cheese, meat sauce, and half of the shredded mozzarella in the pot. Mix well.
Baking
  1. Pour the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serving
  1. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Baked ziti can be frozen for 2-3 months; cool completely before wrapping.