Hello friends, Chef André here.
Some recipes feel like a warm hug, and this Italian Nonna–style Baked Ziti is exactly that kind of dish.It’s rich, cheesy, and comforting, but balanced with tender zucchini that lightens everything just enough. This is the kind of baked pasta my nonna would bring straight to the table in a big dish, bubbling hot, knowing everyone would go back for seconds.
Perfect for cozy family dinners, Sunday meals, or anytime you need a reliable crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Why This Baked Ziti Always Wins
This recipe works because it’s:
- Comforting and deeply satisfying
- Loaded with melty cheese
- Balanced with vegetables
- Perfect for make-ahead meals
- Loved by kids and adults alike
Classic Italian-style comfort, done right.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups zucchini, sliced or diced
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Cook ziti in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and cook until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.
Step 3
Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Stir in zucchini, marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 4
In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, and Parmesan.
Step 5
Combine pasta with sauce. Layer half in a baking dish, spread ricotta mixture, add mozzarella, then repeat layers.
Step 6
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Chef André’s Tips for the Best Baked Ziti
- Don’t overcook the pasta
- Let the ziti rest before slicing
- Use full-fat cheese for best texture
- Season the sauce well—pasta needs it
Small details make a big difference.
Easy Variations to Try
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey
- Add spinach or mushrooms
- Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta
- Add extra mozzarella on top for a crisp finish
What to Serve with Baked Ziti
This dish pairs perfectly with:
- Simple green salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed broccoli
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: up to 4 days
- Freezer: up to 2 months
- Reheat in oven for best texture
FAQ – Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Zucchini
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Is this kid-friendly?
Very—cheesy, mild, and comforting.
Can I make it lighter?
Use lean beef and part-skim cheese.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, once fully cooled.
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving
- Calories: ~560 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
Values vary by cheese and portion size.
Final Words from Chef André
This Italian Nonna’s Ultimate Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Zucchini is the kind of recipe that brings everyone together at the table. Cozy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying, it’s comfort food you can always count on.
If you try it, let me know how it turned out.
For safe food handling tips, visit USDA Food Safety:
https://www.usda.gov/food-safety
Chef André 👨🍳