Million Dollar Baked Ziti elevates the classic baked pasta dish to new heights of indulgence. This rich and cheesy casserole combines layers of ziti pasta, savory meat sauce, and a creamy blend of ricotta and sour cream, all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan. 

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Mix the Cheeses: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sour cream, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
5. Assemble the Dish: Layer half of the cooked pasta in the prepared baking dish. Spread the cheese mixture over the pasta. Add the remaining pasta, followed by the meat sauce. Top with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 505 kcal per serving
• Total Fat: 28 g
• Total Carbohydrate: 45 g
• Protein: 25 g

What Makes Million Dollar Baked Ziti Special?

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is not just your regular baked pasta dish; it is a hearty, indulgent meal packed with layers of flavor. Unlike traditional baked ziti, this version includes a creamy mixture of ricotta and sour cream, which adds a luscious, velvety texture that sets it apart. The combination of savory meat sauce, al dente pasta, and gooey, melted cheese makes this dish irresistibly delicious. The richness of this baked ziti makes it feel like a gourmet meal while still being incredibly easy to prepare. It is the perfect comfort food for those who crave something cheesy, creamy, and satisfying. Whether you are feeding a crowd or preparing a make-ahead meal, Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a dish that never disappoints.

The History of Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that has been a staple in many households for decades. Originating from Italy, pasta al forno (oven-baked pasta) has long been a favorite in Italian cuisine. In traditional Italian recipes, baked pasta is often prepared with simple ingredients like tomato sauce, mozzarella, and sometimes béchamel sauce. When Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to America, they adapted their recipes to incorporate more widely available ingredients. Over time, baked ziti evolved to include meat, various cheeses, and a richer, creamier texture. Million Dollar Baked Ziti takes this classic dish a step further by adding a luxurious blend of ricotta and sour cream to enhance the creamy consistency, making it even more decadent and comforting.

Why Million Dollar Baked Ziti is Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the biggest reasons this dish is so popular is its versatility. It is an ideal option for various occasions, including:

• Family Dinners: Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special gathering, this dish is always a hit with both kids and adults.
• Potlucks and Parties: Baked ziti is easy to transport and stays warm for a long time, making it an excellent choice for social gatherings.
• Meal Prep: This recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making it a convenient meal option for busy schedules.
• Holiday Feasts: Many people prepare this dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other special occasions when a comforting and filling meal is needed.

How to Customize Your Million Dollar Baked Ziti

While the classic version of this dish is already delicious, there are several ways to customize it based on personal preferences and dietary restrictions:

• Protein Choices: Instead of ground beef, you can use Italian sausage, ground turkey, or even plant-based meat substitutes for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Cheese Variations: The traditional recipe calls for mozzarella and Parmesan, but you can experiment with provolone, fontina, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it Up: If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes, spicy sausage, or a dash of cayenne pepper to the meat sauce.
• Extra Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value by adding spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs without compromising on flavor.

Tips for Making the Best Million Dollar Baked Ziti

To ensure your baked ziti turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, it’s best to cook it until just al dente. Overcooking will result in a mushy texture.
• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your dish depends on the quality of ingredients used, especially the marinara sauce and cheese.
• Layering Matters: To achieve the best balance of flavors and textures, carefully layer the pasta, cheese mixture, and meat sauce instead of mixing everything together.
• Let It Rest: After baking, allow the dish to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.
• Cover While Baking: Covering the dish with foil for the first part of baking helps prevent the cheese from burning while ensuring everything is heated through evenly.

Storing and Reheating Million Dollar Baked Ziti

One of the best things about this dish is that it stores and reheats exceptionally well. Here’s how to properly store and reheat your leftovers:

• Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the entire dish before baking or after it has been cooked. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. If frozen, allow the dish to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. This creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish brings comfort to any dining table and is loved by people of all ages. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or bringing a dish to a gathering, this recipe never fails to impress.