Easy Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella

If you are craving a comforting, flavorful, and cheesy pasta dish, look no further than this easy Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella. Combining the hearty richness of ground beef, the creamy meltiness of mozzarella, and the boldness of Greek-inspired seasonings, this meal brings a fantastic twist on the classic baked pasta. It’s perfect for family dinners, busy weeknights, or whenever you want a luscious, satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Upgrade: It takes the familiar and beloved baked ziti and infuses it with fresh Greek flavors for an exciting new taste experience.
• Easy-to-Follow Steps: Simple preparation and straightforward instructions make this recipe accessible for home cooks at any skill level.
• Hearty and Filling: Ground beef adds a satisfying protein boost, making it a complete and balanced meal.
• Cheesy Perfection: Melted mozzarella blankets the dish for gooey, irresistible texture with every bite.
• Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs without losing the essence of the recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the right pasta to the blend of spices, everything is essential to create that authentic home-cooked experience that everyone will crave.

• Ziti Pasta: A tubular pasta that holds sauce beautifully and bakes well without becoming mushy.
• Ground Beef: Adds rich, savory depth and protein to make the meal hearty.
• Mozzarella Cheese: The star cheese offering gooey, melty texture and mild creaminess.
• Olive Oil: An essential Greek staple that adds richness and helps saute the beef evenly.
• Onion and Garlic: Aromatic base that enhances the savory profile of the sauce.
• Canned Tomatoes: Provides tangy, natural sweetness and moisture for the sauce.
• Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the sauce.
• Dried Oregano and Basil: Classic Greek herbs that infuse earthiness and freshness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A gentle kick for subtle warmth to balance the richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty sharpness to complement mozzarella and sauce.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance all flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Brightens the dish with fresh, herbaceous notes at the end.

Variations for Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella

This recipe is flexible and fun to personalize. Feel free to experiment with ingredients to create your perfect version while keeping the heart of the dish intact.

• Swap the Meat: Use ground lamb or turkey for a different protein profile and flavor depth.
• Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, chopped bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
• Make it Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add sliced kalamata olives for a briny, spicy boost.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute mozzarella with a plant-based cheese and skip parmesan for a vegan-friendly twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and check canned ingredients to ensure they comply with dietary needs.

this …

How to Make Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti until it is al dente, usually about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions to avoid overcooking. Drain the pasta and set aside, ready for the sauce and cheese to join it.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute for that irresistible aroma. Add the ground beef, seasoning it well with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and basil. Brown the meat until fully cooked and crumbly, then drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Develop the Sauce

To the cooked beef, add canned tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well to combine, and allow it to simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, which helps deepen the flavors and thicken the sauce. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want some mild heat. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Baked Ziti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef-tomato sauce, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix everything thoroughly so each piece of pasta is coated and ready to be topped.

Step 5: Bake to Melty Perfection

Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella evenly on top, followed by freshly grated parmesan cheese to create a golden crust once baked. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

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

• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keeping the ziti slightly firm holds up better when baking and prevents mushiness.
• Season as You Go: Layer salt and herbs gradually at each stage for full, balanced flavor.
• Use Fresh Mozzarella: If possible, fresh mozzarella offers creamier melting than pre-shredded types.
• Let it Rest: Allow the baked ziti to cool for 5 minutes before serving to set and avoid a burnt tongue.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble this dish a day ahead and refrigerate before baking to save time.

How to Serve Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella

Garnishes

Brighten the dish with fresh chopped parsley or basil right after baking to add a fresh, herbal contrast to the cheesy richness. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely finish with a fruity note.

Side Dishes

Complement this hearty baked ziti with a Greek salad featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta. Warm pita bread or garlic bread pairs wonderfully, soaking up every delicious sauce drop.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it family-style straight from the baking dish for a cozy, informal meal or portion individual servings in elegant bowls topped with an extra sprinkle of parmesan and a fresh herb leaf for a special touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making for even better lunches or next-day dinners.

Freezing

Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella freezes well: place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or microwave individual servings until warm and melty. Add a splash of water or extra sauce if needed to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! While ziti is classic, penne, rigatoni, or even large shell pasta work well to hold sauce and bake beautifully with this recipe.

Is this recipe very spicy?

No, it’s gently spiced with just a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle warmth, but you can easily adjust the heat to your liking.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives to keep it filling and tasty without the meat.

How do I prevent the baked ziti from drying out?

Be careful not to overcook the pasta before baking, and consider adding a splash of water or extra sauce if the mixture seems dry when assembling.

What cheeses pair well besides mozzarella and parmesan?

Feta or ricotta can add wonderful Greek flair, and a sprinkle of kefalotyri or kasseri cheese would also be delicious on top.

Final Thoughts

This easy Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella is a delightfully comforting dish that brings together the best of Italian and Greek flavors in one luscious bake. Whether for a casual dinner or feeding a crowd, it’s sure to become a favorite you reach for again and again. Give it a try and enjoy the magic of creamy cheese, savory beef, and perfectly spiced tomato sauce all baked to golden perfection.

Related Posts

• Easy Skillet White Pesto Chicken and Orzo Recipe
• Easy Baked Spicy Sesame Butter Chicken Recipe You’ll Love
• Easy One Pan Creamy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Recipe

Print