Easy Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella

Discover a quick, delicious Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella recipe perfect for family dinners and easy weeknight meals. This hearty casserole brings together tender pasta, savory ground beef, and melty mozzarella, all layered with traditional Greek flavors and baked to bubbly perfection. It’s comfort food elevated with a Mediterranean twist, combining simple ingredients in an irresistible way that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-Friendly Comfort: A crowd-pleaser that satisfies kids and adults alike with its cheesy, meaty goodness.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh basics for a straightforward cooking experience without sacrificing flavor.
• One-Dish Convenience: Combines protein, pasta, and cheese all baked in one pan, cutting down on cleanup.
• Rich Greek Flair: Infuses ziti with Mediterranean herbs and spices, bringing a unique twist to the classic baked pasta.
• Flexible for Any Occasion: Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or casual gatherings with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella are simple yet essential, each contributing a vibrant layer of taste, texture, or color to the final dish.

• Ziti pasta: The perfect tubular pasta to hold sauce and cheese, creating a delicious bite each time.
• Ground beef: Provides a hearty base and rich flavor to the dish.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy topping everyone loves.
• Olive oil: Traditional Greek olive oil adds smoothness and depth to the sautéed beef and sauce.
• Onion and garlic: The aromatic foundation that elevates the savory profile.
• Canned crushed tomatoes: Rich and slightly sweet, these form the flavorful sauce.
• Greek herbs (oregano, thyme, parsley): Bring authentic Mediterranean notes to the dish.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a mild kick that balances the richness.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every component.
• Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds sharpness and extra umami on top.

Variations for Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella

Feel free to make this recipe your own by playing around with ingredients that suit your taste or dietary needs – it’s surprisingly easy to customize while keeping its delicious Greek spirit.

• Substitute ground beef: Use ground lamb or turkey for a different protein profile with the same hearty benefit.
• Vegetarian version: Swap meat for sautéed mushrooms and eggplant for a plant-based delight.
• Cheese variations: Mix mozzarella with feta for an authentic Greek cheese twist.
• Spice it up: Add chopped kalamata olives or a dash of smoked paprika for added complexity.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising on taste.

How to Make Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the ziti according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking when baking.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Mix the cooked ziti into the meat sauce until well combined, ensuring every pasta tube is coated with the rich tomato and beef mixture.

Step 6: Assemble in Baking Dish

Transfer half the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese, then add the remaining pasta. Top with more mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly around the edges.

Pro Tips for Making Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook ziti until al dente because it will continue cooking in the oven and avoid mushy texture.
• Drain fat carefully: Removing excess fat after browning the beef keeps the sauce from becoming greasy.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and oregano deliver brighter, more vibrant flavors than dried alone.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to cool 5-10 minutes after baking for easier slicing and fuller flavor development.
• Customize cheese amounts: Adjust mozzarella and Parmesan quantities based on how cheesy or golden you prefer your baked ziti.

How to Serve Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few kalamata olives on top adds color and an extra layer of Greek flavor that brightens each bite.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp Greek salad with cucumber, tomato, olives, and lemon vinaigrette or warm pita bread for dipping in any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style dinner, bake in a large casserole and serve straight from the dish, or portion it into individual ramekins for charming personal servings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, preserving the flavors and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked ziti before baking or after it’s cooled completely, wrapping tightly to avoid freezer burn. It freezes well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, or use the microwave for a quicker option.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni can be great substitutes, as long as they hold sauce well.

Is this recipe spicy?

It is mild by default, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or hot paprika to increase the heat to your liking.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant to keep it hearty.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free ziti or any gluten-free pasta alternative, making sure the rest of your ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What cheese works best besides mozzarella?

Feta cheese adds a Greek twist, while Parmesan or Pecorino Romano can boost umami and enrich the flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella is the perfect fusion of comfort food and Mediterranean flair, bringing warmth and deliciousness to your table with minimal fuss. Whether for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite. Give it a try and watch it disappear fast – your taste buds will thank you!

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