Easy Ziti Casserole
A hearty baked ziti casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, gooey mozzarella, and savory spaghetti sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour cooked ziti into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion; drain excess fat.
- Pour the cooked beef and onion mixture over the ziti in the pan.
- Top with spaghetti sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage. You can also substitute the ziti with penne or any other pasta shape you prefer. If you're short on time, pre-made spaghetti sauce like All-Purpose Italian Sauce can save you a step. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the dish's flavor profile, making it more robust.
Serving Suggestions
This easy ziti casserole is a hearty meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a complete dinner. For a refreshing touch, serve with a light vinaigrette salad or steamed vegetables. If you want to explore more delicious Italian recipes, consider making a side of Italian Bean And Sausage Soup for a comforting combination.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ziti casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals, adding a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating to refresh the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Ziti Casserole contains roughly 489 calories, with 27g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 674mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the ziti casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you're looking for alternatives to ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat. These options will still provide a hearty texture and flavor to the casserole.
Can I freeze the ziti casserole?
Absolutely! Ziti casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).