A deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish is ideal to accommodate the full volume; press down the top layer gently to compact the ingredients if necessary Recipe

This classic baked ziti with ground beef and ricotta wraps up everything we adore about Italian-American comfort food: saucy noodles, creamy cheese, and golden, bubbling mozzarella. Each layer brings irresistible contrasts of flavor and texture, and it’s all baked together until the edges are perfectly caramelized. A deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish is ideal to accommodate the full volume; press down the top layer gently to compact the ingredients if necessary, ensuring every bite is just as decadent as the next. This is the kind of family-style pasta bake you’ll want to share, whether it’s a weeknight gathering or a cozy Sunday dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the magic of baked ziti is how it transforms everyday staples into a flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing meal. Each ingredient plays its role—whether it’s adding richness, depth, or that unforgettable cheesy pull when you slice into it.

• Ground beef: Adds hearty flavor and richness for a truly satisfying meat sauce.
• Olive oil: A classic base for sautéing onions and garlic, building the sauce’s depth.
• Onion: Enhances the sauce with a gentle sweetness and subtle aroma.
• Garlic: Elevates the sauce with a fragrant, savory undertone.
• Black pepper: Offers a mild kick that rounds out the sauce’s flavors.
• Italian seasoning: Balances the dish with quintessential herbs—oregano, basil, thyme.
• Salt: Essential for bringing the entire flavor profile to life—don’t be shy here!
• Spaghetti sauce: Provides tomato richness, body, and a saucy base for layering.
• Ricotta cheese: The creamy heart of the filling, lending luxurious softness with every bite.
• Eggs: Help the ricotta mixture set, so each piece slices neatly without falling apart.
• Nutmeg: Adds warmth and intrigue to the cheese mixture—just a little makes a difference!
• Mozzarella cheese (shredded): Used both inside and atop the dish for that trademark stretch.
• Parmesan cheese: Delivers a savory, nutty accent to balance all that creamy cheese.
• Ziti pasta: The ideal shape for catching sauce and cheese in every tube.

How to Make A deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish is ideal to accommodate the full volume; press down the top layer gently to compact the ingredients if necessary

Step 1: Prepare the Hearty Meat Sauce

Start by heating olive oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent—about 5 to 7 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning. Stir in the minced garlic, letting it cook until fragrant for just another minute or so. Next, increase the flavor—and the excitement—by adding ground beef, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, breaking up the meat as you go. Cook until there’s no trace of pink (drain any excess fat if needed), then stir in your jars of spaghetti sauce for a thick, aromatic meat sauce. Let it simmer, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Step 2: Make the Ricotta Cheese Filling

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, a bit of Italian seasoning, and a tiny pinch of nutmeg. Mix until smooth and creamy—this luscious blend is what makes every forkful so decadent. Don’t skip the nutmeg; it offers a gentle, almost secret, warmth that will have people asking for your baked ziti recipe.

Step 3: Cook the Ziti Pasta

Bring a big pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the ziti just until al dente, then drain thoroughly. That firmness ensures the pasta doesn’t go mushy as it bakes—trust me, those perfectly textured noodles are the key to a great baked ziti.

Step 4: Assemble in Your Deep Ceramic 9×13-inch Baking Dish

This is where your dish really shines—A deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish is ideal to accommodate the full volume; press down the top layer gently to compact the ingredients if necessary so every layer bakes up rich and satisfying. Spread 1/2 cup of the sauce across the bottom of the baking dish, then layer in half of the pasta. Next, spoon over half of the remaining meat sauce, followed by half of the creamy ricotta mixture. Repeat all the layers, finishing with the last of the ricotta on top. If things are looking a bit full, press down gently with a spatula so the layers are snug but not compressed into mush. That little bit of pressure yields perfect slices after baking.

Step 5: Bake to Golden, Bubbly Perfection

Place your loaded dish onto a rimmed baking sheet—you’ll thank yourself later if there’s a little bubbly overflow. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake at 350°F for 40 minutes. Carefully remove the foil, sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella, and return it to the oven for another 10 minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted and golden. Allow it to rest for 15 minutes for neatly sliced servings that hold together like a dream.

How to Serve A deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish is ideal to accommodate the full volume; press down the top layer gently to compact the ingredients if necessary

Garnishes

Elevate your baked ziti by showering it with freshly chopped basil, a scattering of extra Parmesan, or even a twist of cracked black pepper. A few sprigs of parsley or a drizzle of rich olive oil just before serving makes for a restaurant-worthy finish. Don’t forget: A deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish is ideal to accommodate the full volume; press down the top layer gently to compact the ingredients if necessary so your garnishes don’t just sit on top, but hug every delicious bite.

Side Dishes

Baked ziti practically begs to be served with a fresh, lightly dressed green salad or roasted vegetables for balance. For a classic pairing, offer garlicky bread or crusty Italian rolls—perfect for soaking up any extra sauce hiding in your deep dish. The whole spread becomes a feast worthy of any celebration, or just a cozy night at home.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to level up presentation, scoop your baked ziti into individual ramekins for a personalized touch or slice neat squares straight from your deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish. The beautiful, compacted layers ensure every portion holds together—pressing down gently before baking really pays off here. For parties, set the dish on a trivet at the center of the table, letting everyone dig in family-style for ultimate comfort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover baked ziti tightly covered in the refrigerator, right in your deep baking dish or transferred to another airtight container. A deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish is ideal to accommodate the full volume; press down the top layer gently to compact the ingredients if necessary before sealing and storing, which helps the flavors meld and keeps slices tidy for tomorrow’s lunch or dinner.

Freezing

Yes, baked ziti freezes beautifully! Assemble and bake it in your trusty deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish, let it cool completely, then double-wrap with foil and plastic wrap. Pressing down gently before freezing creates compact, sturdy layers that hold up well. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake until heated through—and savor that just-baked taste all over again.

Reheating

For best results, reheat baked ziti in the oven. Cover with foil and warm at 350°F until hot throughout; remove the foil for the last few minutes to re-crisp the cheese topping. If you used your deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish and pressed down the layers initially, reheated portions will slice and lift out perfectly, with all the creamy, saucy charm intact.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta besides ziti?

Absolutely! While traditional ziti is classic, penne or rigatoni both work beautifully in this dish. Just be sure to keep that deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish handy—whatever noodle you choose, you want enough space for all those glorious layers.

Can I prepare baked ziti ahead of time?

You bet. You can assemble the entire dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. A deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish is ideal to accommodate the full volume; press down the top layer gently to compact the ingredients if necessary so it holds together beautifully during refrigeration.

How do I prevent my baked ziti from becoming watery?

Be sure to drain your pasta well, and let the baked ziti rest after coming out of the oven. This allows any excess moisture to be absorbed, especially if you’ve pressed the top layer gently using your deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Definitely! Skip the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a medley of roasted veggies. You’ll still want A deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish is ideal to accommodate the full volume; press down the top layer gently to compact the ingredients if necessary, no matter what filling you use.

What’s the best way to get clean slices for serving?

Letting your baked ziti rest for 15 minutes after baking is essential—alongside pressing the top layer gently in your deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish before baking. This ensures tidy, beautiful slices that are just as appealing on the plate as in the pan.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for the ultimate in homey, celebratory comfort food, this baked ziti with ground beef and ricotta truly delivers. So grab your favorite deep ceramic 9×13-inch dish, press down the top layer gently to compact the ingredients if necessary, and let the oven work its magic. Chances are, one bite will make this recipe a favorite in your kitchen, too.

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