Are you looking for a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with vibrant flavors? Our Mexican Style Baked Ziti is just the recipe you need. Perfect for a fun family dinner or a festive gathering, this fusion dish combines the heartiness of classic baked ziti with the zesty, bold taste of Mexican cuisine. It’s a creative meal that brings people together, sparking joy with every cheesy, spiced bite!
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, corn, and taco seasoning. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked ziti pasta to the skillet, mixing well to combine everything. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a large baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Make It Vegetarian: Swap out the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or more beans.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Spice It Up: Add a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
Pairings
This Mexican Style Baked Ziti pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh guacamole, a crunchy green salad, and a glass of chilled limeade or a refreshing margarita for the adults. A bowl of homemade salsa and tortilla chips on the side would also be a delightful addition.
Ready to try this colorful and delicious Mexican Style Baked Ziti? We absolutely cannot wait to see your creations! Share your dishes with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram. And don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website https://www.zynahz.com/. Stay updated with our latest recipes by subscribing to our newsletter and following Zynahz on social media. Happy cooking!
