Description
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is a classic Italian-American comfort food that combines tender pasta, a rich meat sauce, and melted cheese. This dish is perfect for family dinners or special gatherings and offers versatility to suit individual tastes. Its balance of flavors and ease of preparation make it a cherished addition to any meal plan.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the pasta:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
For the meat sauce:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar (24 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt, to taste
For the cheese:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Prepare the pasta:
- Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Make the meat sauce:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in oregano, cinnamon, cardamom, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to release the aromas.
- Add tomato sauce, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and let simmer for 10 minutes until thick and bubbly.
Assemble the dish:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the meat sauce. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, and cheeses, ensuring the top is generously covered with cheese.
Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Rest and serve:
- Allow the baked ziti to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.