Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, meaning it’s tender but still has a slight bite. Drain the pasta well and set aside. It’s important not to overcook the pasta at this stage, as it will continue to cook in the oven.1 pound ziti pasta
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's evenly browned and no pink remains. Drain off any excess grease from the skillet.1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 pound lean ground beef
- Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the browned ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.1 pound lean ground beef, 1 large onion, 3 cloves garlic
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it gently simmer for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- In a medium bowl, combine the lightly beaten egg, ricotta cheese, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined. This creamy mixture is key to the delightful texture of the baked ziti.1 large egg, 15 ounces ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- In a large bowl, combine the drained ziti pasta with the simmering meat sauce. Stir gently to ensure all the pasta is coated. Spoon about half of this pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.1 pound ziti pasta, 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the pasta in the baking dish. You don't need to spread it perfectly; small pockets of creamy ricotta are delicious.15 ounces ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Spoon the remaining pasta and meat sauce mixture over the ricotta layer, spreading it out evenly to cover. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top. For an extra-cheesy crust, you can sprinkle a little additional Parmesan cheese here as well.2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
- Once baked, let the Best Ever Baked Ziti with Ground Beef stand for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve and ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced.
Notes
Storing and Reheating Tips: Allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerated leftovers last 3-4 days. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat individual portions in microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes. Reheat from frozen by thawing overnight or baking covered for 45-60 minutes at a lower temperature, removing foil for the last 15 minutes.