Baked beef ziti

Baked Beef Ziti is a comforting dish that features gluten-free pasta mixed with a savory ground beef and aromatic herb sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for family meals, it brings classic Italian flavors with a gluten-free twist.

21 Dec 2025
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

12 oz gluten-free pasta
2 tsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves
16 oz ground beef (80/20%)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp fresh thyme
1 tbsp rosemary
4 cans canned tomatoes
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp white pepper
4 oz mozzarella cheese
Baked beef ziti

{'text': "Baked Beef Ziti is a comforting and hearty dish that combines savory ground beef, aromatic herbs, and melted mozzarella cheese with perfectly cooked gluten-free pasta. It's a great meal for family gatherings or a cozy night in. This recipe brings classic Italian flavors to your table with a gluten-free twist, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions."}

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the gluten-free pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Mix in the dried oregano, fresh thyme, and rosemary. Stir well to combine.
- Add the canned tomatoes to the skillet. Season with the salt and white pepper.
- Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well combined and heated through. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and meat sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
5. Assemble the Baked Ziti:
- Transfer half of the pasta and sauce mixture into a baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pasta.
- Add the remaining pasta and sauce mixture on top.
- Finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese sprinkled evenly on the top.
6. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the dish is heated through.
7. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious baked beef ziti!

{'text': "Baked Beef Ziti is a delicious and satisfying dish that's easy to prepare and perfect for any night of the week. By following these steps and tips, you can create a delightful gluten-free meal that will be enjoyed by everyone at your table. From its flavorful beef and tomato sauce to its gooey melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household."}

Baked beef ziti FAQ:

How long should I bake the Baked Beef Ziti?

Bake the Baked Beef Ziti in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

How can I tell if the Baked Beef Ziti is done?

The Baked Beef Ziti is done when the cheese is melted and bubbling, and the dish is heated through. If you prefer a golden top, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes—just keep a close eye on it.

Can I make substitutions for the ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative to accommodate dietary preferences.

What is the best way to store leftovers of Baked Beef Ziti?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can use regular pasta if you do not have gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Tips:

- Cook the pasta until just al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven, absorbing the flavors of the sauce, so you don't want it to become mushy.

- For a richer flavor, you can use a mix of ground beef and pork. This will add more depth to the dish.

- Feel free to add in some vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

- Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried ones if they’re not available. Just remember dried herbs are more concentrated, so use them sparingly.

- Let the baked ziti rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven to allow the flavors to meld together and make serving easier.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 280kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 20g
Fiber 2.52g
Sugar 2.61g
Fat 16g

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