Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe

There's nothing quite like digging into a warm, cheesy, and utterly comforting plate of Million Dollar Baked Ziti. With layers of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a rich, flavorful meat sauce, this dish truly tastes like a million bucks—without breaking the bank!

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe when searching for the perfect make-ahead meal for a family gathering. It was an instant hit, with everyone going back for seconds (and even thirds). Whether you're making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this baked ziti is sure to become a staple in your home.

Why You'll Love This Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite baked pasta dish. Million Dollar Baked Ziti isn't just delicious—it's pure comfort food at its finest.

First, let's talk about flavor. This ziti is loaded with layers of creamy, cheesy goodness and a robust, well-seasoned meat sauce that makes every bite irresistible.

Next, it's easy to make ahead. You can assemble the whole dish in advance and pop it in the oven when you're ready, making it perfect for busy nights or entertaining guests.

It's also budget-friendly. The ingredients are simple and affordable, yet the final result tastes like something from a fancy Italian restaurant.

Finally, this dish is crowd-pleasing. Whether you're serving picky eaters, kids, or dinner guests, baked ziti is always a winner. Serve it with a side salad and some garlic bread, and you've got a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Million Dollar Baked Ziti lies in its simple yet well-balanced ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ziti Pasta – The classic choice for baked ziti, but penne or rigatoni work just as well. Cook it until just al dente so it doesn’t become mushy in the oven.
• Ground Beef or Italian Sausage – Adds deep, savory flavor to the sauce. You can use either, or a mix of both, depending on your preference.
• Marinara Sauce – A good-quality jarred sauce works perfectly, but if you have a homemade version, even better!
• Ricotta Cheese – This creamy layer is what gives the dish its “million-dollar” richness. You can also mix in some cottage cheese for a lighter option.
• Mozzarella Cheese – For that ooey-gooey meltiness. I recommend shredding it yourself for the best texture.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty depth to the dish. Freshly grated Parmesan is always best.
• Egg – Helps bind the ricotta mixture, creating a more structured layer in the baked ziti.
• Garlic and Onion – Essential for adding depth and aroma to the sauce.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary gives the sauce an authentic Italian flavor.
• Heavy Cream (Optional) – A small splash in the ricotta mixture makes it extra rich and velvety.

You’ll also need a large baking dish (9x13 works best) and some aluminum foil for baking.

How To Make This Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Making Million Dollar Baked Ziti is easier than you think! Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta until it’s al dente—firm to the bite. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Next, add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.

3. Make the Ricotta Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, an egg, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If you’re using heavy cream, stir it in for extra richness.

4. Assemble the Baked Ziti

• Spread a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of your baking dish.
• Add half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the ricotta mixture.
• Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese.
• Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining sauce and a final layer of mozzarella and Parmesan.

5. Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set for the perfect slice!

Storage Options

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Million Dollar Baked Ziti stores beautifully:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Freezer: Assemble the ziti but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable! Here are some fun ways to customize it:

• Swap the Protein: Try ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even a vegetarian version with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for a kick of heat.
• Go Low-Carb: Substitute with zucchini noodles or a mix of pasta and roasted cauliflower.
• Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese Variations: Swap ricotta for cottage cheese or use a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and asiago for a more complex cheesy flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for a dish that’s easy, cheesy, and packed with comfort, this Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a must-try. It's perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or just a cozy night in with family. Try it once, and I promise it’ll become a regular in your kitchen.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy baked ziti? Let me know in the comments below!

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