Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Million Dollar Baked Ziti combines the perfect balance of creamy ricotta, tangy marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella. The rich, savory flavors make it a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it’s a great choice for weeknight meals or large gatherings. Plus, it’s baked to perfection, creating a bubbly, golden crust that everyone will love. If you’re looking for a go-to recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious, this baked ziti is a winner!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 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 the ziti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage until cooked through. Drain excess fat, then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

4. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.

5. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella and some grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy.

6. Grease a baking dish and start layering the ziti. Begin with half the cooked pasta, followed by a layer of meat sauce, and dollops of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers.

7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

8. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

  • Prep time: 20 minutes

  • Cook time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef or sausage and use vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian twist.

• Cheese Options: Swap out mozzarella or Parmesan for other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or gouda for different flavor profiles.

• Spicy Baked Ziti: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat, or use spicy sausage instead of the mild one.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta, but ziti works best as its shape holds the sauce and cheese well. Penne, rigatoni, or mostaccioli are also good options.

2. Can I make Million Dollar Baked Ziti ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes for reheating.

3. Can I freeze Million Dollar Baked Ziti?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Cover the assembled dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and then follow the baking instructions.

4. Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a meatless option like tofu or tempeh for a vegan version.

5. Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives such as plant-based mozzarella and ricotta for a dairy-free version.

6. How do I know when the ziti is fully cooked?

The ziti should be golden and bubbly, with the cheese on top melted and slightly browned. If you’re unsure, insert a knife into the center, and it should come out hot.

7. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Definitely! Using store-bought marinara is a great shortcut to save time, but if you prefer, you can make your own from scratch.

8. How can I make the baked ziti spicier?

To add heat, mix in red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage. You can also try adding diced jalapeños to the sauce.

9. Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Yes! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the sauce for added flavor and texture.

10. What side dishes go well with baked ziti?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is the perfect combination of cheesy, creamy, and savory flavors, making it a surefire hit for any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this recipe is easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its rich layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce, it’s comfort food at its finest—something everyone will love to dig into!