Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a bubbling, cheesy baked ziti fresh from the oven. Million Dollar Baked Ziti takes this classic dish to a whole new level, layering pasta with a creamy cheese filling and rich, hearty sauce that tastes like it came straight out of a five-star Italian kitchen.

I discovered this recipe during a family get-together, and it was an instant hit. It’s not just delicious – it’s a lifesaver on busy nights or when you’re feeding a crowd. Let me show you how to create this irresistible dish that lives up to its name.

Why You'll Love This Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort food. Million Dollar Baked Ziti is more than a recipe – it’s a culinary hug in a dish.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a masterpiece on your table that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. Even novice cooks can whip this up with confidence!

This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, celebrating with family, or meal prepping for the week, it’s a filling dish that stretches far without stretching your budget.

You’ll also love the versatility of this baked ziti. It’s easy to swap out ingredients, accommodate dietary needs, or use whatever you have on hand. Plus, the leftovers taste just as good (if not better) the next day.

Finally, Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a showstopper. The layers of melted cheese, creamy filling, and perfectly cooked pasta make it an unforgettable centerpiece for any table.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Million Dollar Baked Ziti lies in its combination of simple ingredients that create a dish bursting with flavor. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this recipe shine.

Ziti pasta is the foundation of this dish. Its tube shape and firm texture are ideal for holding onto the sauce and cheese. If you don’t have ziti, penne or rigatoni work just as well.

Ground beef forms the hearty base of the sauce. For extra flavor, you can mix in Italian sausage or use all sausage if you prefer a spicier kick. Make sure to drain any excess grease after browning.

Marinara sauce ties the dish together. Use your favorite store-bought brand for convenience, or make your own for a personal touch. A good-quality sauce will elevate the flavors of this dish.

Ricotta cheese gives the filling its signature creaminess. Mixing it with sour cream and cream cheese makes it extra indulgent – hence the “million-dollar” name. Cottage cheese can be used as a lighter alternative.

Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses create that irresistible melted topping. For best results, shred your mozzarella fresh. It melts better and has a superior flavor to pre-shredded varieties.

No special equipment is needed, but a deep 9x13-inch baking dish is perfect for layering all the goodness.

How To Make This Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Creating this show-stopping dish is easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll be rewarded with a bubbling tray of deliciousness.

Start by cooking the ziti pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside. Remember, slightly undercooked pasta is better since it will finish cooking in the oven.

While the pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess grease and stir in your marinara sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, and a handful of Parmesan cheese. This creamy mixture is the secret to that “million-dollar” flavor.

Now it’s time to assemble. Start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the cheese mixture, and a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a generous topping of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.

Bake the ziti in a preheated 375°F oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Storage Options

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Here’s how to store it for maximum freshness.

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven, making it a great option for meal prep.

To freeze, assemble the ziti in a freezer-safe baking dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

For single servings, portion leftovers into microwave-safe containers before freezing. This makes reheating quick and convenient.

Variations and Substitutions

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is as adaptable as it is delicious. Here are a few ways to customize it to your taste.

• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian version.
• Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to sneak in extra nutrients and flavor.
• Use a white sauce or Alfredo instead of marinara for a creamier twist on the classic.
• If you’re short on time, skip the layering and mix everything together before baking. It’s just as tasty with half the effort!
• For a spicy kick, use hot Italian sausage or stir in crushed red pepper flakes with the sauce.

Don’t be afraid to experiment – this recipe is nearly foolproof and open to endless possibilities. Enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!

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