Introduction
There are some dishes that just feel like a warm hug on a plate, and Creamy Beef Baked Ziti is undeniably one of them. Imagine tender ziti pasta, perfectly al dente, swimming in a rich, savory ground beef sauce, all enveloped in a dreamy, creamy cheese blend, and then baked to golden, bubbly perfection. This isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience – a hearty, satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table with eager anticipation. It’s the ultimate comfort food, a true crowd-pleaser that embodies everything wonderful about a home-cooked meal.
What sets this baked ziti apart is its incredible creaminess, a luxurious texture that elevates it beyond your everyday pasta bake. While many baked ziti recipes rely heavily on a tomato-based sauce, ours takes a delightfully different approach, focusing on a luscious, cheesy sauce that perfectly complements the savory beef. It’s hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites, yet refined enough to feel like a special occasion dish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, preparing for a potluck, or simply craving something truly comforting after a long day, this Creamy Beef Baked Ziti delivers on all fronts.
The beauty of this recipe also lies in its straightforward preparation. While it looks impressive, the steps are simple and approachable for home cooks of all skill levels. From browning the beef to layering the ingredients and finally baking it to a golden, bubbly finish, each stage is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe repertoire – one that promises deliciousness, warmth, and smiles around the dinner table every single time.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate values):
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
- 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 pound ziti pasta (or penne/rigatoni)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)