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homemade baked ziti with ground beef and cream che 2026 03 23 145347 819x1024 1

Homemade Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Cream Cheese

A comforting and delicious baked ziti dish featuring ground beef, cream cheese, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
  • 2 cups ziti pasta Can replace with other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni.
  • 1 cup cream cheese Increase for a creamier texture.
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For topping.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • Fresh basil for garnish Optional.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
  4. Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the beef and simmer for about 5 minutes.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, meat sauce, cream cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese; mix well.
  6. Pour the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
  7. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Baking
  1. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving
  1. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Serve with a simple green salad and garlic bread. Can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C).