Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that’s pure comfort and guaranteed to impress, look no further than Million Dollar Baked Ziti. It’s everything you crave in a warm, cheesy pasta bake: saucy noodles, rich layers of creamy ricotta, hearty ground beef or sausage, and gooey melted cheese on top. This is the kind of meal that tastes like a celebration but is surprisingly simple to pull together, perfect for casual dinners or feeding a hungry crowd!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Million Dollar Baked Ziti lies in how just a handful of well-chosen ingredients can create something truly spectacular. Each element brings its own character, from the richness of the cheese to the savory notes of the sauce and meat.

• 12 oz ziti pasta: These short, sturdy noodles hold onto the sauce and cheese, making every bite satisfying.
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage: Choose your favorite for a hearty, savory layer that anchors the whole dish.
• 24 oz marinara sauce: Use a good-quality sauce to create a flavor-packed base; homemade or jarred both work wonderfully.
• 15 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk): This creamy cheese helps create the “million dollar” richness in each forkful.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (whole milk): For that perfectly stretchy, bubbly, golden top and fabulous ooze in the center.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish and pairs perfectly with the other cheeses.
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses every layer with classic Italian flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Adds irresistible aroma and depth to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Just a few shakes bring all the flavors into harmony.

How to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Step 1: Cook the Ziti

Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the ziti pasta and cook until it’s just al dente, about 8–10 minutes. You want your noodles to have a little bite since they’ll cook more in the oven. Drain them and set aside, ready for their starring role in our Million Dollar Baked Ziti.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown your ground beef or Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain off any extra fat to keep the sauce from getting greasy. Next, toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for a minute—your kitchen will already start to smell irresistible at this point! Pour in the marinara sauce and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling

While the sauce is bubbling away, grab a mixing bowl and stir together the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and a spoonful of Parmesan. Mix until everything is creamy and well combined. This is the heart of that signature “million dollar” richness you’ll taste in every bite.

Step 4: Layer Everything Up

Lightly grease a casserole or 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Start by spreading half of the cooked ziti noodles across the bottom. Add half the meat sauce on top, followed by generous dollops of your ricotta cheese mixture. Repeat with the remaining pasta, sauce, and cheese mixture to build delicious layers.

Step 5: Finish and Bake

Cover the dish snugly with aluminum foil and pop it in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and sprinkle on the rest of your mozzarella cheese (get that extra melty layer we all love). Bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes until you see irresistibly bubbly, golden cheese. Let it rest a few minutes before serving, and your Million Dollar Baked Ziti is ready for the spotlight!

How to Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Garnishes

A little garnish takes your Million Dollar Baked Ziti from homey to restaurant-worthy! Try a generous sprinkling of freshly chopped basil or parsley before serving for a touch of color and freshness. A dusting of extra Parmesan never hurt either—go ahead and let it snow!

Side Dishes

Since this baked ziti is such a hearty main course, it shines alongside simple sides. Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or a basket of warm, crusty garlic bread that’s perfect for scooping up any extra sauce. For a cozy Italian-inspired dinner, roast up some vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti straight from the oven in its bubbling casserole for that classic, family-style effect. Or, for a special occasion, scoop individual servings into ramekins and top with a sprig of basil. If you’re offering it at a buffet or potluck, cut it into neat squares for easy, hand-held bites guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is just as irresistible the next day—maybe even better! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to 4 days and makes a fabulous lunch or quick dinner.

Freezing

One of the best things about this ziti is that it’s freezer-friendly. Simply assemble the casserole (but don’t bake), wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, cover your leftover ziti with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot and bubbling, about 20–25 minutes. For single servings, the microwave works great—just cover to keep the pasta moist. If you’re reheating from frozen, add a little extra bake time and check that the center is heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of ziti?

Absolutely! While ziti gives the dish its signature look and texture, other tubular pastas like penne or rigatoni work well too. The key is choosing a pasta shape that can hold on to that hefty sauce and all the cheesy goodness.

Is there a vegetarian version of Million Dollar Baked Ziti?

Definitely! Simply leave out the meat and add extra vegetables, like sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, so you still get that “million dollar” creaminess and flavor.

Can I prepare Million Dollar Baked Ziti ahead of time?

Yes, this is actually a perfect make-ahead recipe. You can assemble the entire dish up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake as directed—making it a stress-free option for busy evenings or entertaining.

What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from getting soggy?

Make sure to cook your ziti just to al dente, since it will continue to absorb some sauce as it bakes. Also, letting the dish cool for a few minutes before serving helps everything firm up for perfect slices.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish or prepare two pans. Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a superstar for potlucks and big family gatherings—and you’ll love how easily it scales up to feed everyone.

Final Thoughts

If you’re dreaming of a dish that’s guaranteed to get rave reviews and leave everyone happily full, give Million Dollar Baked Ziti a try. It brings together all the best flavors of classic Italian comfort food in one bubbling, cheesy, satisfying bake. Your friends and family are going to beg you for a repeat!

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