Ziti with Mozzarella and Ground Beef

A comforting baked ziti with seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of melted mozzarella for an easy family dinner.

This ziti with mozzarella and ground beef is a hearty, comforting baked pasta dish with layers of savory meat sauce, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese. It is perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or any time you want a satisfying homemade meal with simple ingredients and big flavor.

Ingredients

• 450 g ziti pasta
• 500 g ground beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 800 g tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
• 250 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 60 g grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 190 C.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, then add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
5. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Add the cooked ziti to the sauce and toss until well coated.
7. Spread half of the pasta mixture into a lightly greased baking dish. Top with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan.
8. Add the remaining pasta mixture, then finish with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a browned top, broil for 1 to 2 minutes if desired.
10. Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if using.