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

The Rich and Indulgent Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is the perfect comfort food dish that brings together layers of pasta, meat sauce, and a creamy cheese mixture, creating a rich and indulgent meal. This dish is beloved by families for its cheesy goodness and hearty flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a special occasion, Million Dollar Baked Ziti is always a crowd-pleaser.

What Makes Million Dollar Baked Ziti Special?

Unlike traditional baked ziti, this version earns its “Million Dollar” name by incorporating a rich and creamy cheese layer. Instead of simply tossing the pasta with sauce and cheese, this recipe includes a luscious mixture of ricotta cheese and sour cream, which adds a smooth and velvety texture to every bite. This extra step elevates the dish, making it taste like something straight from a high-end Italian restaurant. Another key element that makes this dish stand out is the layering technique. While some pasta bakes mix everything together, Million Dollar Baked Ziti is assembled in layers. This method helps maintain distinct textures and flavors, ensuring that each forkful delivers a perfect balance of pasta, sauce, and cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Texture: The ricotta and sour cream blend creates a luxurious texture that sets this dish apart from standard baked pasta.
• Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet taste, this dish is surprisingly simple to prepare.
• Great for Meal Prep: You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it when ready, making it perfect for busy families.
• Freezer-Friendly: This baked ziti freezes well, making it a fantastic option for batch cooking.
• Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Whether you’re feeding a family or serving guests at a gathering, everyone will love this hearty dish.

Tips for the Best Million Dollar Baked Ziti

• Use Quality Ingredients: Since this dish relies on simple components, using high-quality marinara sauce, fresh cheese, and good pasta will make a difference in the final taste.
• Cook the Pasta Al Dente: The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so make sure to boil it until just al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the baked ziti to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.
• Customize the Meat: While ground beef is commonly used, you can also substitute it with ground turkey, sausage, or a combination of meats for added flavor.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley enhances the flavor and adds a pop of color to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a satisfying dish on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great accompaniments:

• Garlic Bread: A side of warm, buttery garlic bread complements the cheesy, saucy flavors.
• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make a delicious and nutritious side.
• Soup: A light Italian soup, such as minestrone or tomato basil, pairs well with this baked dish.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is just as delicious the next day, making it a great dish for leftovers.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
• Reheating: To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Variations of Million Dollar Baked Ziti

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for extra heat.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter version.
• Three-Cheese Variation: Use a blend of ricotta, cottage cheese, and cream cheese for an even creamier filling.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a dish that combines simplicity with indulgence. Its creamy texture, flavorful meat sauce, and gooey cheese topping make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, its versatility allows you to tweak the ingredients to match your personal taste. Once you try it, this recipe will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen.