Ingredients
12 ounces ziti noodles
1 pound ground beef
2 cups Alfredo sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the ziti noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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.
Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the beef, stirring to combine.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, browned beef, and Alfredo sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Variations & Tips
For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. If you prefer a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef while it’s cooking. You can also incorporate vegetables like spinach or mushrooms into the casserole for added nutrition. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Alfredo sauce is gluten-free as well. Finally, if you like a crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the cheese before baking.