Creamy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Creamy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Introduction:
Looking for the ultimate comfort food? This Creamy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is the kind of hearty, cheesy casserole that warms both the heart and the table. It’s rich with layers of tender pasta, savory beef, and velvety white sauce, all baked until golden and bubbling. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals, this dish offers a delicious twist on traditional baked pasta with its creamy texture and balanced flavors. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll turn to again and again!

Ingredients:

For the pasta and beef layer:

• 1 lb (450 g) ziti or penne pasta

• 1 tbsp olive oil

  ADVERTISEMENT

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• Salt & pepper to taste

For the creamy béchamel sauce:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 4 cups whole milk (warm)

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  ADVERTISEMENT

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt & white pepper to taste

For topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese

  ADVERTISEMENT

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti or penne until just al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the beef mixture:
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and sauté briefly.
   Stir in ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.

3. Make the béchamel sauce:
   In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
   Gradually add warm milk while whisking constantly until smooth and thickened.
   Stir in nutmeg (if using), mozzarella, and Parmesan. Season with salt and white pepper. Remove from heat once cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.

4. Assemble the dish:
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with half of the béchamel sauce. Add the beef mixture and stir gently.
   Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the remaining béchamel sauce over the top. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.

5. Bake:
   Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
   For an extra golden crust, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end—watch closely to avoid burning.

6. Cool and serve:
   Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers settle and flavors meld.

Conclusion:
This Creamy Baked Ziti with Ground Beef is the epitome of cozy, feel-good food. Every bite offers a rich blend of pasta, meat, and luscious white sauce, topped with irresistibly melted cheese. It’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing guests at dinner. Best of all, it reheats beautifully—so don’t be surprised if you’re reaching for seconds (and thirds!). Serve it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.