Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is an indulgent, hearty dish that takes classic comfort food to new heights. This pasta casserole combines layers of flavorful marinara, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, preparing a cozy weeknight dinner, or feeding a crowd, this recipe promises to satisfy. Having made it countless times, I can assure you that its rich taste and ooey-gooey goodness will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are many reasons to make Million Dollar Baked Ziti, making it an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire. Firstly, it’s incredibly budget-friendly; you can whip up a filling dish without breaking the bank. Secondly, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Kids and adults alike can’t resist the carb-loaded goodness of pasta and cheese. Finally, it’s perfect for meal prep or freezer storage, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dinner on even the busiest nights.

“This baked ziti recipe is a family favorite! It’s creamy, cheesy, and a fantastic way to use up leftovers. Every bite is pure comfort.” — Sarah K., avid home cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Making Million Dollar Baked Ziti is easier than you might think! The process involves cooking the pasta, preparing a flavorful meat sauce, and layering everything with creamy cheese for that irresistible texture. To ensure a smooth cooking experience, follow this overview before diving into the ingredients:

1. Boil ziti until al dente.
2. Sauté onion and garlic, then brown your meat.
3. Mix the ricotta filling until creamy and smooth.
4. Layer pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, and sauce in a baking dish.
5. Bake to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Gather Your Ingredients

To create this delicious Million Dollar Baked Ziti, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 12 ounces ziti pasta
• 3 cups well-seasoned marinara sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese (preferably whole milk)
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

Feel free to swap the meat for a plant-based alternative or even get creative with your cheese choices!

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until al dente, around 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. If using, add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it apart and cooking until browned. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then let it simmer to meld the flavors for about 5 minutes.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
6. Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Layer half the cooked ziti on the bottom, then spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over it. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the sauce.
7. Repeat the layers: ziti, ricotta, mozzarella, and sauce, ending with a topping of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and browned.
9. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

What to Serve It With

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is incredibly versatile when it comes to sides! You can serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread is a classic pairing that complements the meal perfectly, while roasted vegetables add a nutritious touch. If you want to set a cozy mood, consider pairing it with a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Best Way to Store Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Storing your leftover baked ziti is easy! Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze individual portions—just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for longer storage. When reheating, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Expert Advice

To elevate your Million Dollar Baked Ziti, consider these handy tips:

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Since it will bake in the oven, al dente is the way to go.
• Layer wisely: Ensure each ingredient is evenly distributed for a balanced taste in every bite.
• Add extra herbs: Sprinkle some fresh basil or oregano on top before serving for an aromatic touch.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? There are countless ways to personalize this classic dish! Try adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a nutritious boost. If you’re a spice lover, a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it an exciting kick. You can also substitute the mozzarella for a smoked variety or incorporate different cheeses for a unique flavor profile.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare Million Dollar Baked Ziti?

Preparation takes about 30 minutes, and baking requires an additional 30-35 minutes.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While ziti is traditional, feel free to experiment with penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you prefer.

How do I reheat leftovers safely?

Use the oven for best results, covering the dish with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it in 1-minute increments until heated through, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

With this Million Dollar Baked Ziti recipe in your arsenal, you’re ready to impress family and friends with a meal that’s sure to be a hit at every gathering!

Million Dollar Baked Ziti

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• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

An indulgent, hearty baked ziti dish that features layers of marinara, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces ziti pasta
• 3 cups well-seasoned marinara sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese (preferably whole milk)
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until al dente, around 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. If using, add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it apart and cooking until browned. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
6. Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Layer half the cooked ziti on the bottom, then spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over it. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the sauce.
7. Repeat the layers: ziti, ricotta, mozzarella, and sauce, ending with a topping of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and browned.
9. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Can be frozen for future meals.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: baked ziti, comfort food, Italian pasta, family meal, cheesy pasta