Air Fryer Baked Beef and Mushroom Ziti

Air Fryer Baked Beef and Mushroom Ziti – Crispy, Cheesy, and Flavor-Packed

If you’re looking for a hearty pasta dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make, this Air Fryer Baked Beef and Mushroom Ziti is just the recipe for you! It combines tender pasta, a savory beef and mushroom marinara sauce, and lots of gooey cheese — all baked to perfection in the air fryer.

Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe turns a comfort food classic into a quicker, air-fried version with no compromise on flavor or texture.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15–18 minutes

• Total Time: 30–35 minutes

• Servings: 6

• Method: Air Fryer

• Cuisine: Italian-American

• Course: Main Course

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce

• 1 pound ziti pasta

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Air Fryer Baked Ziti with Beef and Mushrooms

 Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Cook the ziti pasta until al dente according to package directions (about 8–10 minutes).

• Drain and set aside.

 Step 2: Sauté the Filling

• In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil.

• Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes).

• Stir in minced garlic and sliced mushrooms; cook for another 4–5 minutes until mushrooms are tender.

• Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

• Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

• Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 8–10 minutes to blend the flavors.

 Step 3: Assemble the Ziti

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta and beef-mushroom sauce. Mix until the pasta is fully coated.

• Spoon the mixture into air fryer-safe baking dishes (metal, silicone, or heatproof glass that fits in your basket).

• Top generously with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

 Step 4: Air Fry the Ziti

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.

• Place the ziti-filled dish in the air fryer basket.

• Air fry at 350°F for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and bubbling.

•  Tip: If using smaller air fryer dishes, you may need to cook in batches. Keep cooked portions warm in a low oven or covered with foil.

 Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Carefully remove the hot dish from the air fryer.

• Let it rest for 2–3 minutes.

• Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Variations & Tips

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and double the mushrooms, or use plant-based meat crumbles.

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat.

• Sneaky Veggies: Mix in chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.

• Creamier Texture: Stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese or a splash of cream before topping with mozzarella.

• Cheese Mix: Add provolone or fontina for an extra melty top.

Storage & Meal Prep

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze baked portions (without garnish) for up to 2 months.

• Reheat: Warm in the air fryer at 320°F for 5–6 minutes, or microwave in short intervals.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Ziti

• Faster than oven-baking with crispy cheesy tops

• Hearty, comforting, and family-friendly

• Great for leftovers and meal prepping

• Perfect mix of savory meat, tender pasta, and gooey cheese

enjoy!