Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella: Ultimate Comfort Food Delight

Aroma in the kitchen can transport you back in time, and for me, the savory scent of Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella always brings back fond memories. As a child, I would watch my grandmother effortlessly prepare this dish with a twinkle in her eye, her hands moving deftly through the ingredients. The bubbling layers of cheese and ziti would create a harmonious melody in the oven, a symphony of flavors waiting to be savored.

Growing up, Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella became a staple at family gatherings. The simplicity of its preparation combined with the richness of its taste made it a favorite. It was a dish that could bring everyone together around the table, each bite a testament to the love and care poured into its making. The magic of this dish lies not just in its ingredients but in the shared joy of cooking and eating it.

In my own kitchen, I’ve embraced the tradition of making Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella, adding my personal touch while preserving its essence. It’s a dish that never fails to impress, whether for a cozy night in or a festive celebration. The layers of tender pasta, savory beef, and molten cheese create an irresistible combination that warms both the heart and the stomach.

As you embark on your culinary journey with this recipe, remember that cooking is not just about the final dish but the moments spent creating it. Let the process be as enjoyable as the result, and may your kitchen be filled with laughter and the delightful aroma of Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella.

Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella

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• Author: Aria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

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Description

Learn how to make a delicious Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella at home with our easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!

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Ingredients

• 454 g dry ziti pasta (1 lb)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 454 g lean ground beef (1 lb)
• 2 (26 oz (737 g)) jars spaghetti sauce
• 170 g provolone cheese, sliced (6 oz)
• 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) sour cream
• 170 g mozzarella cheese, shredded (6 oz)
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Collect all the necessary ingredients.
2. Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Drop in the ziti pasta and cook until just tender, roughly 8 minutes, then drain.
3. While the pasta cooks, place the ground beef and chopped onion in a large skillet over medium heat and cook until browned. Stir in the spaghetti sauce and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Set your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) to preheat. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
4. Layer half of the cooked ziti at the bottom of the greased dish.
5. Place slices of provolone cheese over the ziti.
6. Spread the sour cream on top of the provolone layer.
7. Pour half of the meat sauce on top, followed by the remaining ziti, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese, and add the rest of the meat sauce. Finish with a layer of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
8. Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake until everything is hot and the cheeses are melted, about 30 minutes.

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Notes

• Note text here
• Opt for low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
• Enhance flavor by adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach between the meat sauce and cheese.
• Customize by experimenting with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda, or add a spicy kick with red pepper flakes or jalapeños.

Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella: A Comforting Classic

Fundamentals

The foundation of any great Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella lies in its ingredients. Start with quality dry ziti pasta, which serves as the backbone of the dish, offering a firm texture that holds up well to baking. Lean ground beef provides a hearty, flavorful base, while onions add a layer of sweetness and depth. The sauce, a blend of two jars of spaghetti sauce, envelops the pasta and beef in rich tomato goodness.

For the cheesy layers, provolone cheese slices, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan come together to create a luscious, creamy texture. Each cheese plays a unique role: provolone adds a smoky flavor, mozzarella melts beautifully, and Parmesan provides a sharp, nutty finish. This combination ensures that every bite of Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella is packed with flavor.

Preparation/setup

Begin by gathering all your ingredients, ensuring everything is within easy reach. This mise en place approach streamlines the cooking process and prevents any last-minute scrambles. Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta until it’s just tender, about eight minutes, then drain it thoroughly.

As the pasta cooks, prepare the meat sauce. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Stir in the spaghetti sauce and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) to ensure it’s ready when you are.

Creating the Perfect Baked Ziti

Technique

Assembly is where the magic happens. Begin by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking. Layer half of the cooked ziti at the bottom of the dish, creating a solid foundation. Place slices of provolone cheese over the pasta, ensuring even coverage for a consistent flavor throughout.

Next, spread the sour cream over the provolone layer. This addition may seem unconventional, but it adds a creamy tang that balances the savory elements of the dish. Pour half of the meat sauce over the sour cream, followed by the remaining ziti. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring it covers the entire surface, and finish with the rest of the meat sauce. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese crowns the dish, adding a touch of sophistication.

Tips/tricks

To enhance the flavor of your Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella, consider these tips. Use freshly grated cheese for a richer taste and smoother melt. Allow the baked ziti to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven; this helps the layers set and makes serving easier. If you’re preparing this dish ahead of time, cover and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, bake it in the oven until everything is hot and the cheeses are melted.

For more inspiration on using ground beef in creative ways, check out this quick and easy honey garlic ground beef and broccoli stir fry or try a comforting green chile stew with ground beef. Each recipe offers a unique twist, showcasing the versatility of ground beef in everyday cooking.

Mastering Baked Ziti Perfection

Perfecting results

Baking your Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella to perfection requires attention to detail. Ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before placing the dish inside. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, approximately 30 minutes. The top should be golden brown, indicating that the flavors have melded beautifully.

For an extra crispy top layer, consider placing the dish under the broiler for a minute or two. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. This step adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy interior, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella seems dry, ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente and not overcooked. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the pasta but not overly concentrated. If needed, add a splash of water or broth to the sauce before layering.

For a different take on this classic, consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the meat sauce for added nutrition and flavor. You can also explore other ground beef recipes like this sopa de fideo with ground beef and beans for a hearty twist or try a savory best ground beef stovetop chili to expand your culinary repertoire.

Serving and Enjoying Your Baked Ziti

Serving/presentation

When it comes to serving Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella, presentation is key. Allow the dish to cool slightly before slicing into neat squares. This resting time ensures clean slices and helps the layers maintain their structure. Use a spatula to serve each portion, showcasing the beautifully layered ingredients.

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. These herbs complement the rich, cheesy flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that satisfies appetites and wins hearts.

Pairings/storage

Pair your Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or sparkling water. The lightness of these drinks balances the richness of the dish, creating a harmonious dining experience. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, ensuring the cheese remains gooey and delicious.

To explore more flavorful ground beef dishes, consider trying a chile relleno casserole with ground beef for a spicy kick or indulge in an easy baked beans and ground beef casserole for a comforting meal. Each of these recipes offers a unique take on using ground beef, expanding your culinary horizons.

Conclusion

Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with nostalgia and flavor. The careful layering of ingredients and the perfect balance of cheeses make it a standout dish for any occasion. Its simplicity allows for easy preparation, while its depth of flavor ensures it will be a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this dish provides an opportunity to create something truly special. By following the steps outlined and incorporating the suggested tips, you can elevate your Baked Ziti With Ground Beef and Mozzarella to new heights. Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and continue to explore the endless possibilities within your kitchen.

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