Imagine a bubbling casserole of cheesy goodness, with layers of pasta, savory sauce, and mouthwatering mozzarella that beckons like a warm hug. Million Dollar Baked Ziti is not just a meal; it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re being wrapped in a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. mozzarella stuffed meatballs The moment you pull it from the oven, the aroma wafts through your kitchen, making everyone stop in their tracks. This dish has an uncanny ability to turn any ordinary day into a festive occasion. For more inspiration, check out this chicken noodle casserole recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I make Million Dollar Baked Ziti ahead of time?
- What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
- Can I freeze leftover baked ziti?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Whenever I whip up this masterpiece, I’m instantly transported back to family gatherings where laughter and love filled the air. My cousin once declared it “the best thing I’ve ever tasted,” while my dog eyed me with the same look he gives when I say “walk.” It’s perfect for potlucks, cozy family dinners, or even when you just want to impress someone special without breaking a sweat. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Million Dollar Baked Ziti is as easy as it is delicious, perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich, cheesy flavor profile will have everyone asking for seconds
- Its gorgeous presentation makes it a showstopper at any gathering
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand!
I once made this baked ziti for my friends’ movie night, and let’s just say there were no leftovers—only happy faces and satisfied bellies.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ziti Pasta: Opt for medium ziti; its tubular shape holds sauce beautifully and gives each bite an extra zing. For more inspiration, check out this easy one-pot spaghetti recipe.
- Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Choose lean meat for less grease; sausage adds delightful spice and flavor.
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous; rich flavors are key here.
- Ricotta Cheese: Look for whole milk ricotta, it’s creamier and enhances the dish’s richness.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Go for whole milk mozzarella; it melts beautifully and creates that gooey texture we all crave.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan elevates the flavors; avoid pre-grated for better taste!
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs adds depth; feel free to add fresh basil or oregano if available.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic infuses amazing aroma; skip powder for maximum flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those delicious flavors!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. chicken alfredo puffs.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously before tossing in the ziti until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Sauté the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown your ground beef or sausage until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary and add minced garlic, cook until fragrant.
Add Sauce and Seasoning: Pour in your marinara sauce along with Italian seasoning. Let it simmer gently so flavors meld beautifully, about 5 minutes should do.
Create Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and some Parmesan. creamy sun dried tomato fettuccine Mix until creamy; this will be our secret weapon against blandness!
Assemble Layers: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the pasta followed by meat sauce and dollops of cheese mixture. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top, then bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Now you’ve got yourself a Million Dollar Baked Ziti that’ll impress anyone fortunate enough to share your table! Enjoy every cheesy bite! classic homemade baked beans.
You Must Know
- This Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings
- The creamy cheese, savory sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta create an irresistible dish that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to recipe!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta until al dente. While it cooks, prepare the sauce, then layer everything in a baking dish for optimal flavor blending.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different cheeses or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for more nutrition and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor; mozzarella adds stretch while ricotta brings creaminess
- Avoid overcooking the pasta to maintain texture
- Let the dish rest before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully
Sharing this Million Dollar Baked Ziti with my friends turned into a delightful evening filled with laughter and compliments—it’s amazing how food can bring people together!
FAQ
Can I make Million Dollar Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a day prior and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Ziti is traditional, but you can use penne or rigatoni as tasty alternatives.
Can I freeze leftover baked ziti?
Yes! It freezes well; just ensure it’s properly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Million Dollar Baked Ziti
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of ziti, savory marinara, and a rich blend of cheeses, this casserole brings warmth and comfort to your table. It’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Get ready to impress with every cheesy bite!
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil salted water in a large pot and cook ziti until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef or sausage until cooked through. Drain fat, then add minced garlic; cook until fragrant.
- Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta with half of the mozzarella and some Parmesan until creamy.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half the ziti, followed by meat sauce and dollops of cheese mixture. Repeat layers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, top with remaining mozzarella, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
