Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this beef Alfredo ziti casserole will become a favorite.
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Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Ready in under an hour.
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Creamy and cheesy. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves pasta and cheese.
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Budget-friendly. Ground beef, pasta, and sauce are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
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Great for leftovers.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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12 ounces ziti noodles
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1 pound ground beef
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2 cups Alfredo sauce
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Notes
Ziti noodles: Use ziti noodles. Cook them until al dente.
Ground beef: Use lean ground beef.
Alfredo sauce: Use jarred Alfredo sauce.
Mozzarella and Parmesan: Add a cheesy topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Cook the Ziti
Cook the ziti noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Step 4: Season the Beef
Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the beef, stirring to combine.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, browned beef, and Alfredo sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
How to Serve Beef Alfredo Ziti Casserole
This creamy, cheesy casserole is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with green beans or broccoli.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or basil.
With Extra Parmesan: Add more cheese on top.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Ground Turkey: Substitute ground turkey for the beef.
Make It with Chicken: Use cooked shredded chicken.
Make It with Different Pasta: Use penne or rigatoni.
Make It with Different Sauce: Use marinara or vodka sauce.
Make It with Vegetables: Add peas or mushrooms.
Make It with Bacon: Add crumbled bacon.
Make It with Herbs: Add thyme or parsley.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Cook the pasta until al dente. It will finish cooking in the oven.
Drain the beef well. Excess grease can make the casserole greasy.
Do not overbake. The cheese should be melted, not burnt.
Let the casserole rest before serving. This allows it to set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Ground turkey or chicken can be used.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Penne or rigatoni can be used.
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes. Marinara or vodka sauce can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The pasta did not absorb enough liquid. Let it rest.
Can I add more cheese?
Yes. Use up to 2 cups.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
Can I make this without Alfredo sauce?
Yes. Use marinara sauce instead.
The Beauty of Alfredo Casseroles
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, creamy pasta casserole that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This beef Alfredo ziti casserole is a celebration of all those things.
Keep pasta in your pantry. Keep ground beef in your freezer. Keep Alfredo sauce and cheese in your fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes
Rest Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings