Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella

If you’re craving a casserole that perfectly blends rich flavors with hearty comfort, look no further than Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella. This delightful dish combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy mozzarella cheese with a subtle Greek twist that makes every bite unforgettable. It’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and a wonderful way to bring a taste of Mediterranean-inspired comfort food to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples for a stress-free cooking experience.
• Rich, Layered Flavors: The savory ground beef and melted mozzarella perfectly complement the aromatic tomato and herbs.
• Family Friendly: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s great for weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.
• Greek-Inspired Twist: Subtle Mediterranean spices and feta cheese elevate traditional baked ziti to a whole new level.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Easy to assemble ahead of time and bake when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about balancing hearty and fresh ingredients. Each component adds something special—texture, tang, or richness—making this Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella a complete and comforting meal.

• Ground Beef: Provides a savory, protein-packed base that makes the dish satisfying.
• Ziti Pasta: The tubular shape captures sauce and cheese, delivering flavor in every bite.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy goodness on top.
• Feta Cheese: Adds a tangy, briny contrast that enhances the Mediterranean vibe.
• Tomato Sauce: The rich, slow-simmered sauce ties all the flavors together perfectly.
• Onion and Garlic: Aromatic essentials that build a deep flavor foundation.
• Oregano and Basil: Classic Greek herbs that bring freshness and character.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics for a fragrant base.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance all elements.

Variations for Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella

This recipe welcomes customization! Whether you want to tweak it for dietary preferences or just add your favorite twists, adapting Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella is fully within reach.

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the beef for leaner meats to lighten up the dish.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a veggie-packed option.
• Spice it Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a little heat.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or olives to boost color and nutrition.
• Different Cheese Combos: Experiment with ricotta or Parmesan alongside mozzarella and feta for richer layers.

How to Make Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling your ziti in salted water until al dente. This ensures your pasta holds its shape through baking without becoming mushy. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add ground beef, cooking until browned and crumbly. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, then stir in the tomato sauce. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked ziti gently with the prepared meat sauce in a large bowl to coat every piece with that luscious tomato and beef mixture. This step guarantees even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, layer half of the ziti mixture, sprinkle half of the crumbled feta, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Repeat layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella on top for a golden, bubbling crust.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots. Let it rest for a few minutes to firm up before slicing. This step enhances flavor and makes serving neater.

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

• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Slightly undercook the ziti since it continues cooking in the oven to prevent sogginess.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh oregano and basil elevate the flavor much more than dried versions.
• Drain Fat Well: After browning ground beef, drain excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
• Cheese Balance: Combining mozzarella’s meltiness with feta’s tang ensures a rich, layered flavor profile.
• Rest Before Serving: Allowing baked ziti to cool slightly helps it set and makes portioning easier.

How to Serve Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or basil leaves add a pop of color and a burst of fresh herbaceousness. A sprinkle of extra feta cheese or a drizzle of good quality olive oil can also brighten up the final presentation.

Side Dishes

Serve with a crisp Greek salad, garlicky roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread to complement the hearty pasta. Tangy tzatziki sauce on the side is a wonderful cooling contrast to the rich baked ziti.

Creative Ways to Present

Try individual ramekins for elegant single servings or layer the dish in a clear glass casserole for enticing visual layers of sauce, pasta, and cheese. Garnishing with edible flowers or a sprinkle of paprika can also add flair for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled leftovers or even the fully assembled uncooked casserole to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in an oven or microwave, covered with foil to prevent drying out. For oven reheating, preheat to 350°F (175°C), warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through and bubbly.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of ziti?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or even large elbow macaroni work well and capture the sauce nicely.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I prevent the baked ziti from drying out?

Be sure to drain your pasta al dente and mix it evenly with sauce before baking; also cover with foil if baking for longer to retain moisture.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it, then bake just before serving for convenience.

What cheese can I substitute if I don’t like feta?

Ricotta or goat cheese are excellent alternatives that maintain the creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Final Thoughts

Greek Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella offers a wonderful blend of Mediterranean flavors with the cozy familiarity of baked pasta. This recipe is not only delicious but incredibly versatile and approachable, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation or special family meals. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and enjoy every comforting bite!

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