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Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella

Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella
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Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella is a hearty and comforting casserole featuring tender ziti pasta, savory ground beef, and melty mozzarella cheese, all enhanced with traditional Greek herbs and spices. Perfect for family dinners and easy weeknight meals, this one-dish baking recipe offers a Mediterranean twist on classic baked pasta that’s flavorful, simple, and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz ziti pasta

Meat & Cheese

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Sauce & Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried oregano (or fresh)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and cook the ziti according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking when baking.
  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.
  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.
  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.
  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.
  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 cheese if desired.
  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.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook ziti until al dente because it will continue cooking in the oven and avoid a 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.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek baked ziti, ground beef casserole, mozzarella pasta bake, Mediterranean baked pasta, easy family dinner, weeknight casserole

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/greek-baked-ziti-with-ground-beef-and-mozzarella/