Ever had a dish so comforting it feels like a warm hug?
Million Dollar Baked Ziti is about to become your new go-to recipe for cozy nights in. This dish is creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, making it a crowd-pleaser. With layers of rich flavors and a bubbling top, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Why make this recipe
There are countless reasons to love Million Dollar Baked Ziti!
- Easy Cleanup: It all comes together in one pan, which means fewer dishes to wash. Score!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will gobble this up. Who can resist melting cheese and hearty pasta?
- Budget-Friendly: A delicious meal doesn’t have to break the bank. This dish checks all the boxes without emptying your wallet.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 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
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the ziti until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
- Add ground beef or sausage. Cook until browned, then stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, simmering to blend flavors.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Grease a baking dish and layer half the cooked ziti, half the ricotta mixture, half the mozzarella cheese, and half the sauce. Repeat layers.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and browned.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
How to make Million Dollar Baked Ziti (Overview)
Making Million Dollar Baked Ziti is as easy as pie! Start by boiling your ziti until it’s just right. In the meantime, sauté your onion and garlic to bring out their amazing flavors. Then, brown your meat before adding the marinara and seasonings. Mix together that delicious ricotta blend and start layering it all in a baking dish. It’s as simple as layering your favorite dessert, just with pasta and cheese!
Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference! 🍝
How to serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Picture this: a bubbling, golden-brown dish of Million Dollar Baked Ziti, fresh out of the oven! Serve it with a crisp side salad for a pop of color, or some garlic bread for that perfect crunch. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone running to the table, and the first cheesy bite will have them begging for more!
How to store Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Million Dollar Baked Ziti can last up to 4-5 days in the fridge. If you’re feeling extra meal-preppy, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Tips to make Million Dollar Baked Ziti
- Cook pasta slightly underdone: Since it will bake in the oven, this prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Mix up the cheeses: Try using a blend of mozzarella and provolone for an extra kick.
- Add veggies: Spinach or bell peppers can sneak in some extra nutrients without compromising on flavor.
Variation
Want to switch things up? Go vegan by closing the meat department and using plant-based sausage or lentils instead. Or give it a spicy twist with some crushed red pepper flakes. You can even throw in some roasted veggies for a colorful, hearty addition.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare it the day before and pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
Q: Can I freeze Million Dollar Baked Ziti?
A: Yes, just cover tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking!
Q: What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
A: You can use cottage cheese or tofu blended with nutritional yeast as a non-dairy option.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the ziti until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
- Add ground beef or sausage. Cook until browned, then stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, simmering to blend flavors.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Grease a baking dish and layer half the cooked ziti, half the ricotta mixture, half the mozzarella cheese, and half the sauce. Repeat layers.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and browned.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
