Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Why Make This Recipe

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a delightful and comforting dish that everyone loves. It combines hearty pasta with savory meat, creamy cheese, and rich marinara sauce. This recipe stands out because it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, as it easily serves a crowd. The layers of flavor will wow your family and friends, making it a great choice for special occasions or just a cozy night in.

How to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Ingredients

• 12 ounces ziti pasta
• 3 cups marinara sauce (well-seasoned)
• 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

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the ziti until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside, ensuring not to overcook since it will bake in the oven later.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add ground beef or sausage if using, breaking it up and cooking until browned. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then simmer to blend flavors.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy to create the binding base of the baked ziti.
4. Grease a baking dish. Layer half the cooked ziti, spread half the ricotta mixture evenly, sprinkle with half the mozzarella cheese, and add half the sauce. Repeat these layers, finishing with a generous topping of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a golden crust.
5. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and browned. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti hot from the oven. You can accompany it with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and added flavor.

How to Store Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Store any leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it. Make sure to wrap it tightly and it can be kept for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti

• Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook while baking.
• Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.

Variation

You can switch up the protein by using chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausage if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option.

FAQs

1. Can I make Million Dollar Baked Ziti in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Certainly! You can use penne, rotini, or any pasta you have on hand.

3. Is it okay to use low-fat cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cheese if you’re looking to reduce calories, but the texture and flavor might change slightly.

Million Dollar Baked Ziti

A delightful and comforting baked ziti dish combining hearty pasta, savory meat, creamy cheese, and rich marinara sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 500

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Sauce

• 12 ounces ziti pasta
• 3 cups marinara sauce well-seasoned

Vegetables and Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Cheese Mixture

• 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

Meat

• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

Method

 

Preparation

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the ziti until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
3. Add ground beef or sausage, breaking it up and cooking until browned. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then simmer to blend flavors.
4. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Assembly

1. Grease a baking dish. Layer half the cooked ziti, spread half the ricotta mixture evenly, sprinkle with half the mozzarella cheese, and add half the sauce.
2. Repeat these layers, finishing with a topping of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Baking

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and browned.
3. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve with a simple green salad and garlic bread. Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for added flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Don’t overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook while baking. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes.