5 Best Baked Ziti With Meat Recipes

top meat baked ziti recipes

Are you ready to plunge into the delicious world of baked ziti with meat? Trust me, these recipes are the ultimate comfort food, combining cheesy goodness and hearty flavors. Whether you're craving classic ground beef, a spicy sausage twist, or even a one-pot wonder, there's something here for everyone. And let's not forget about that creamy ricotta goodness! So, grab your apron, and let's get cooking! You won't want to miss what's coming next!

Classic Baked Ziti With Ground Beef

Classic Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a comforting and delicious dish that combines al dente pasta, rich tomato sauce, and savory ground beef, all topped with a gooey layer of melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this hearty meal is sure to please a crowd.

The layers of flavor and texture create a satisfying experience that warms the soul, making it a staple in many homes.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 ounces marinara sauce
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, salt, and pepper. Transfer half of the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese, then layer the remaining ziti mixture on top.

Finish with the rest of the mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the meat sauce while it simmers. You can also customize the recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.

To save time, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking; just increase the baking time slightly if cooking from cold. Finally, let the baked ziti sit for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven to make it easier to serve.

See also  5 Best Sausage And Pepper Recipes

Enjoy your homemade baked ziti!

Spicy Italian Sausage Baked Ziti

spicy sausage baked pasta

For a delicious twist on a classic baked ziti, try this Spicy Italian Sausage Baked Ziti. The combination of zesty Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella creates a comforting dish that's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

With a hint of heat from the sausage and a rich tomato sauce, this baked ziti is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large skillet, cook the spicy Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

In a separate pot, cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, sausage mixture, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, egg, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper, and mix until well combined.

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Extra Tips:

For an even richer flavor, consider adding some sautéed onions and bell peppers to the sausage mixture.

You can also customize the spice level by using mild Italian sausage or adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preference.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can assemble it in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking it straight from the fridge. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Baked Ziti

Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Baked Ziti is a delightful twist on the classic baked ziti, combining tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich blend of cheeses for a comforting and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer.

With its cheesy goodness and nutritious ingredients, this baked ziti will surely become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz ziti pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
See also  5 Best Lasagne Recipes

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, chopped spinach, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Extra Tips:

For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or some cream cheese to the ricotta mixture.

If you prefer a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce. Feel free to customize the dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or using different types of cheese based on your preference.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results, ensuring it's heated through.

Baked Ziti With Meatballs and Ricotta

pasta dish with meatballs

Baked Ziti with Meatballs and Ricotta is a comforting Italian-American dish that combines tender pasta, savory meatballs, and creamy ricotta cheese, all baked together to create a hearty meal perfect for any occasion.

This dish isn't only satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The melty mozzarella on top adds a delicious finishing touch, ensuring everyone will be going back for seconds.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Drain any excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese, mixing until well combined.

See also  5 Best Pasta Vegetarian Recipes

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meat mixture.

You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or fontina, for added depth.

If you're short on time, using pre-made meatballs or a store-bought meat sauce can help speed up the process.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Ziti with Meatballs and Ricotta!

One-Pot Baked Ziti With Ground Turkey

One-Pot Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey is a delicious and hearty dish that combines pasta, savory ground turkey, and rich marinara sauce, all baked together to create a comforting meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.

This recipe simplifies the cooking process by allowing everything to be prepared in a single pot, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. The creamy cheese topping adds a delightful finish, making this dish a favorite for families and gatherings alike.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 12 ounces ziti pasta
  • 4 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground turkey over medium heat until it's fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.

Drain any excess fat, then add the marinara sauce, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pot.

Stir in the uncooked ziti pasta, ensuring it's well coated with the sauce mixture. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and the liquid has been mostly absorbed.

Remove from heat and sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Cover the pot again for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Extra Tips:

To improve the flavors of your One-Pot Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey, consider adding sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms along with the turkey.

For a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can mix in a little ricotta cheese before baking.

Don't forget to let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the cheeses to set and make serving easier. Enjoy your meal with a side salad or garlic bread to round out your dining experience!


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