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Overhead view of a Beef Alfredo Ziti Casserole showing the glossy ivory alfredo sauce and browned beef crumbles.

Beef Alfredo Ziti Casserole: The Ultimate Creamy Comfort Food Bake

This Beef Alfredo Ziti Casserole features tender ziti pasta tossed in a glossy ivory-colored alfredo sauce with seasoned browned beef crumbles, topped with bubbly, toasted mozzarella cheese and fresh green parsley.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 645
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Casserole Components
  • 16 oz ziti pasta 454g, cooked al dente
  • 1 lb ground beef 454g, lean
  • 1 tbsp garlic 8g, minced
  • 1 tsp onion powder 3g
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter 56g
  • 2 cups heavy cream 475ml
  • 1.5 cups Parmesan cheese 150g, freshly grated
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese 226g, shredded
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley 8g, finely minced

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch white ceramic rectangular baking dish Essential for even baking and presentation.
  • 1 Large Skillet For browning the ground beef crumbles.
  • 1 Medium Saucepan To prepare the homemade alfredo sauce.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil the ziti in salted water for 2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with minced garlic and onion powder until small, well-browned crumbles form. Drain excess fat.
Sauce and Assembly
  1. Melt butter in a saucepan, add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Whisk in Parmesan until the sauce is a thick, glossy ivory color.
  2. In a white ceramic rectangular baking dish, toss the ziti, beef crumbles, and alfredo sauce together until thoroughly coated.
Baking
  1. Cover with mozzarella cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes to get golden-brown toasted patches.
  2. Scatter finely minced fresh green parsley over the hot casserole before serving.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest ivory sauce.
Ensure the beef is drained well to prevent a greasy top layer.