Beef Alfredo Ziti Casserole

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This Beef Alfredo Ziti Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dinner that brings together tender ziti pasta, savory ground beef, and rich Alfredo sauce. Topped with a melty layer of mozzarella and Parmesan, it’s baked to golden perfection for the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for weeknight meals or make-ahead entertaining, this hearty casserole is sure to please the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Loaded with high-protein ground beef

• Features rich, creamy Alfredo sauce for maximum comfort

• Bakes in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights

• Family-friendly and picky-eater approved

• Ideal for meal planning and make-ahead meals

Ingredients Breakdown

Base Ingredients

• 12 ounces ziti noodles – A hearty pasta that holds onto the sauce and beef well.

• 1 pound ground beef – Adds rich flavor and protein to the dish.

Sauce & Seasonings

• 2 cups Alfredo sauce – Creamy and flavorful, it coats the pasta and beef beautifully.

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds savory depth.

• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and balance.

Cheese Layer

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts into a gooey, bubbly topping.

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Brings sharpness and enhances the Alfredo sauce.

Other Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for browning the beef.

• Chopped parsley (optional) – For a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Tips and Tricks

• Use rotisserie chicken instead of beef for a lighter twist.

• Add steamed broccoli or spinach to sneak in some veggies.

• Use jarred Alfredo sauce for convenience or make your own from scratch for extra richness.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture

• Low-carb: Use zoodles or low-carb pasta

• Cheese lovers: Add provolone or fontina for extra cheesiness

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with:

• A crisp Caesar salad

• Garlic bread or breadsticks

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until hot throughout

Popular Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or rotini work great in place of ziti.

Is Alfredo sauce better homemade or store-bought?

Both work well. Homemade gives a richer flavor, but store-bought saves time.

Beef Alfredo Ziti Casserole

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Tender ziti, savory beef, and creamy Alfredo sauce baked under a golden mozzarella-Parmesan crust—comfort food at its cheesiest

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces ziti noodles

• 1 pound ground beef

• 2 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

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2. Cook the Pasta

Boil the ziti noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.

4. Season the Meat

Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper for added flavor.

5. Combine the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, seasoned beef, and Alfredo sauce. Mix until well coated.

6. Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

7. Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling at the edges.

8. Garnish and Serve

Let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with parsley if desired, then serve hot.

Notes

• For a crispier top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.

• Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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