Beef and Mushroom Ziti Recipe

There’s something incredibly special about gathering around the dinner table with your loved ones to share a meal that’s not only delicious but also created with love and imagination. Our Beef and Mushroom Ziti is a mouthwateringly rich and hearty dish that perfectly embodies the essence of family bonding and culinary creativity. Imagine the aroma of savory ground beef and earthy mushrooms wafting through your warm, inviting kitchen, as the golden layer of melted cheese on top beckons everyone to the table. This ziti is a versatile addition to your family dinner rotation, brimming with flavor and the comfort of home-cooked goodness.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté until the mushrooms are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.
6. Stir in the marinara sauce and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Combine the cooked ziti with the beef and mushroom sauce in a large bowl.
8. Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden crust.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Helpful Tips

For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with a meat substitute or additional mushrooms. You can also add spinach or bell peppers for extra veggies. If short on time, use pre-sliced mushrooms and pre-minced garlic. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.

This Beef and Mushroom Ziti pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a glass of red wine or sparkling water. For a complete meal, consider serving with garlic bread and a light dessert like a fruit sorbet.