Homemade Baked Ziti With Ground Beef And Cream Cheese
Why make this recipe
Homemade Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Cream Cheese is a comforting and delicious meal that everyone loves. It’s easy to make, perfect for family dinners, and great for feeding a crowd. The creamy texture from the cream cheese pairs wonderfully with the rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. Plus, you can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
How to make Homemade Baked Ziti With Ground Beef And Cream Cheese
Ingredients :
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups ziti pasta
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the beef and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, meat sauce, cream cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese; mix well.
- Pour the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.
How to serve Homemade Baked Ziti With Ground Beef And Cream Cheese
Serve your baked ziti warm from the oven. Cut it into squares and place on plates. It goes well with a simple green salad and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also offer extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want more flavor.
How to store Homemade Baked Ziti With Ground Beef And Cream Cheese
If you have leftovers, let the ziti cool down completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can microwave individual servings.
Tips to make Homemade Baked Ziti With Ground Beef And Cream Cheese
- To add more flavor, consider adding chopped onion and garlic to the ground beef while cooking.
- If you want a little kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- For a creamier texture, you can increase the amount of cream cheese to your liking.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Variation
You can also make this dish with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. If you prefer a vegetarian option, skip the meat and add your favorite vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the baked ziti in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Yes! You can freeze baked ziti before baking it. Just cover it well and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake.
What can I use if I don’t have ziti pasta?
You can substitute ziti with any similar pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
Homemade Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Cream Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the beef and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, meat sauce, cream cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese; mix well.
- Pour the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.
Notes
