Million Dollar Baked Ziti

why make this recipe

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a crowd-pleaser loved by many. It combines the joy of cheesy pasta with savory meat sauce, making it a perfect choice for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings. The recipe is simple and requires common ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, it is both hearty and comforting, bringing together flavors that everyone enjoys. With its rich taste and delightful texture, this dish is truly worth every penny.

how to make Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Ingredients:

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 15 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (whole milk)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook ziti until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage until cooked through. Drain the fat, then add minced garlic; cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. In a bowl, mix ricotta with half of the mozzarella and some Parmesan until creamy.
6. In a greased baking dish, layer half the ziti, followed by the meat sauce and dollops of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, top with the remaining mozzarella, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly.

how to serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti

To serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti, let it cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Cut it into portions, and you can serve it with a side salad or garlic bread. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds a nice touch. It pairs well with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea.

how to store Million Dollar Baked Ziti

If you have leftovers of Million Dollar Baked Ziti, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

tips to make Million Dollar Baked Ziti

• Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Feel free to substitute the meat with ground turkey or keep it meatless by using more vegetables.
• For extra creaminess, mix in some cream cheese with the ricotta cheese.
• You can also add some spinach or other veggies to the meat sauce for added nutrition.

variation

Try adding different types of cheese like provolone or fontina for a unique twist. You can also use different pasta shapes such as penne or rigatoni.

FAQs

Can I make Million Dollar Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the day before and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

Can I use homemade marinara sauce instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade sauce will add a wonderful touch to your baked ziti.

What can I serve with baked ziti?
Baked ziti pairs well with garlic bread, salads, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Million Dollar Baked Ziti

A hearty and comforting baked ziti dish with cheesy pasta and savory meat sauce, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 8 servings

Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Meat

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage Substitute with ground turkey if desired.
• 24 oz marinara sauce Homemade marinara can be used.
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Cheese Mixture

• 15 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk) For extra creaminess, consider mixing in cream cheese.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (whole milk)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Boil salted water in a large pot and cook ziti until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
• In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage until cooked through. Drain the fat, then add minced garlic; cook until fragrant.
• Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; simmer for about 5 minutes.
• In a bowl, mix ricotta with half of the mozzarella and some Parmesan until creamy.

Assembly

• In a greased baking dish, layer half the ziti, followed by the meat sauce and dollops of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers.

Baking

• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil, top with the remaining mozzarella, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly.

Notes

Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes after removing from the oven. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread. For added nutrition, consider stirring in spinach or other vegetables into the meat sauce.

Keyword Baked Ziti, Cheesy Pasta, Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Pasta