Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe

If you’re searching for a show-stopper of a comfort dish that will earn instant raves, look no further than Million Dollar Baked Ziti. Imagine creamy layers of zesty sauce, rich cheeses, and perfectly cooked pasta all baked to golden-bubbly perfection. This meal isn’t just a crowd-pleaser; it’s seriously fuss-free to assemble but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Every bite bursts with comforting Italian flavor, making it an unforgettable family favorite and a hit for gatherings of any size.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Million Dollar Baked Ziti relies on just a handful of simple pantry staples, but don’t underestimate their power. Each ingredient works its magic — from the pasta that soaks up that cheesy goodness to the tangy sauce and melty cheeses that bring everything together in glorious harmony.

• Ziti pasta: Tubular noodles that capture all the saucy, cheesy perfection, giving every forkful unbeatable texture.
• Ground beef or Italian sausage: Choose either for richness and savory depth — sausage adds a little extra kick of flavor if you like things bold.
• Marinara sauce: The backbone of the dish; brings bright, tangy tomato flavor and luscious moisture to every layer.
• Ricotta cheese (whole milk): Adds luxurious creaminess and a slightly sweet contrast to the zesty sauce.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (whole milk): Melts beautifully for that irresistible, stretchy cheese pull everyone loves.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a salty, nutty punch and helps brown the topping into a gorgeous crust.
• Italian seasoning: A ready-made blend of herbs that instantly boosts the authentic, classic Italian aroma.
• Garlic (minced): Toasted briefly to give the whole dish a mouthwatering, homey fragrance.
• Salt and pepper: The finishing touch — simple, but absolutely essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.

How to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Step 1: Cook the Ziti

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your ziti and cook it just until al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. The pasta should be firm to the bite because it will finish cooking in the oven and soak up wonderful flavor. Once done, drain and set aside — you’re halfway to pasta paradise!

Step 2: Brown the Meat

While your ziti cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef or Italian sausage. Break it into crumbles and cook until browned and cooked through, then drain any excess fat. This step is key for packing savory flavor into every bite. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant — it’s about to get deliciously aromatic.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Pour in your marinara sauce over the browned meat and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This quick simmer allows all those flavors to meld together — and the smell alone will have hungry folks wandering into your kitchen!

Step 4: Make the Cheese Mixture

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the whole-milk ricotta with half of your shredded mozzarella and a generous scoop of Parmesan. Blend everything until the mixture is creamy and smooth. This cheesy filling is what gives your Million Dollar Baked Ziti those luscious, velvety layers.

Step 5: Layer the Ziti

Now for the fun part — assembly! Grease a large baking dish and start with a layer of half your cooked ziti. Ladle over half the meat sauce, then spoon generous dollops of the ricotta cheese mixture. Repeat the layering with the rest of the ziti, remaining sauce, and more cheese mixture. This technique ensures every corner of your dish is filled with flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the assembled ziti with foil and bake for 25 minutes to let all those flavors get cozy. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top, and bake uncovered for another 15 to 20 minutes until you see golden, bubbly, cheesy goodness. Your Million Dollar Baked Ziti is ready to steal the show!

How to Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Garnishes

Dress up your finished Million Dollar Baked Ziti with a handful of fresh basil leaves or flat parsley for a burst of color and a fresh, aromatic lift. A final sprinkle of extra Parmesan right before serving never hurts either — it makes the cheesy top even more tempting.

Side Dishes

Pair your ziti with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette or a simple Caesar for balance and freshness. Warm, crusty garlic bread is practically non-negotiable for mopping up every last drop of that luscious sauce. If you want something a little lighter, steamed broccoli or green beans work beautifully on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

For family dinners, serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti straight from the baking dish for that cozy, rustic vibe everyone loves. Hosting guests? Try spooning portions into individual ramekins before baking for festive single-serves. Or, go buffet-style and let everyone help themselves — it’s a surefire way to get the party going.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover ziti keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors only deepen after a day in the fridge, making it a downright irresistible lunch or quick weeknight dinner. Just be sure to let it cool completely before packing it away.

Freezing

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a freezer champion! You can freeze the fully baked dish (once cooled) or assemble and freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap, and it’ll keep for up to two months. To prevent freezer burn, consider double-wrapping or using a lidded freezer-safe dish.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the dish with foil and pop it into a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, usually 25 to 30 minutes. For single servings, the microwave works great on medium power. If you’re baking from frozen, add an extra 15 to 20 minutes to the bake time and keep it covered until bubbling throughout.

FAQs

Can I use penne instead of ziti for this recipe?

Absolutely! Penne works well as a substitute since its shape will also hold the sauce and cheese. While the texture will be slightly different, the taste will still be everything you expect from Million Dollar Baked Ziti.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit the ground meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a medley of your favorite roasted vegetables. The rich cheese and sauce will keep it hearty and satisfying.

Can I assemble Million Dollar Baked Ziti ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Assemble your dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and keep it chilled in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit out for about 20 minutes at room temperature, then bake as directed.

What’s the best way to keep the ziti from getting soggy?

Cooking the pasta just until al dente and making sure your marinara sauce isn’t too thin are both key. The pasta will absorb some sauce as it bakes, but starting with a firm noodle ensures it won’t turn mushy.

Can I add other cheeses to Million Dollar Baked Ziti?

Of course! Feel free to experiment by adding provolone, fontina, or a sprinkle of extra-sharp cheddar for a new flavor twist. Just make sure to keep that creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella center stage for the classic experience.

Final Thoughts

Don’t be surprised if this Million Dollar Baked Ziti becomes the most-requested meal in your rotation. It’s pure cozy comfort, incredibly easy to share, and guaranteed to spark smiles all around the table. Gather your ingredients, assemble your layers, and get ready to wow your family with every cheesy, saucy bite — this is one dish you’ll be proud to call your own.

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