Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Why Make This Recipe

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and satisfaction to any dinner table. This recipe combines layers of pasta, meat, and cheesy goodness to create a dish that feels special without being overly complicated. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or simple weeknight dinners, this baked ziti is a hearty meal that everyone will love.

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. Cook the ziti until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside, making sure not to overcook since it will bake later.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
3. Add the ground beef or sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart and cooking until browned. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then let it simmer to blend the flavors.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the 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.
5. Grease a baking dish. Layer half of the cooked ziti, spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly, sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese, and add half of the sauce. Repeat these layers, finishing with a generous topping of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a golden crust.
6. 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 straight from the oven, hot and bubbling. It’s great on its own or paired with a simple side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for added flavor and a pop of color.

How to Store Million Dollar Baked Ziti

If you have leftovers, let the baked ziti cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, simply thaw and warm it in the oven until heated through.

Tips to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti

• Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
• Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
• Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the meat mixture for extra nutrition.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. You can also use different types of cheese, such as ricotta or goat cheese, for a unique twist.

FAQs

Can I make Million Dollar Baked Ziti ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish, assemble it, and store it in the refrigerator for a day before baking. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you enjoy can work here, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

How do I know when the baked ziti is done?

The baked ziti is ready when the cheese is bubbly and has a golden-brown crust on top. A food thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) at the center.

Million Dollar Baked Ziti

A hearty baked ziti dish that combines layers of pasta, ground meat, and a cheesy topping, perfect for family gatherings and weeknight dinners.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and sauce ingredients

• 12 ounces ziti pasta
• 3 cups marinara sauce (well-seasoned) Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.

Meat and cheese mixture

• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese (preferably whole milk)
• 1 large egg Helps bind the mixture.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided Save some for the topping.

Vegetable base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Method

 

Preparation

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. 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 the chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
3. Add the ground beef or sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart and cooking until browned. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then let it simmer to blend the flavors.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Assembly

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

Baking

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven 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 hot, optionally with a side salad and garlic bread. You can also sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for added flavor.