Name: Million Dollar Baked Ziti: 7 Cheesy Comfort Food Secrets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage; 1 small onion diced; 3 cloves garlic minced; 24 oz marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup ricotta cheese; 8 oz cream cheese softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a rich and cheesy baked pasta dish that has quickly become a family favorite in my home. This creamy baked ziti with meat is not just easy to prepare; it’s also a comforting feast that brings everyone together at the dinner table. With its layers of ziti pasta, savory ground beef, and a delightful blend of ricotta and mozzarella, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight or planning a gathering, this Million Dollar pasta bake is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Baked Ziti

This baked ziti recipe is perfect for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Secondly, the creamy layers of cheese and pasta create a comforting flavor that everyone loves, making it a kid-friendly option. Thirdly, you can customize this dish with various proteins or vegetables, ensuring that it fits your family’s preferences. Additionally, it’s a great meal prep option, allowing you to make it ahead of time. Finally, with its rich flavors, it’s often referred to as the best baked ziti recipe ever!

Ingredients for Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Gather these items:

1 pound ziti pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
1 small onion diced
3 cloves garlic minced
24 oz marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup ricotta cheese
8 oz cream cheese softened
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ziti and cook until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Sauté diced onions for 3–4 minutes. Add meat and cook until browned. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 4: In a bowl, mix ricotta, softened cream cheese, sour cream, and 1 cup of mozzarella until smooth.
Step 5: Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish. Layer half the pasta, half the meat sauce, then all the cheese mixture. Top with remaining pasta and sauce. Finish with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 6: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake 10–15 more minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 7: Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or basil.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Keep these in mind:

This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be frozen for later use.
Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein.
Make sure to let it rest before serving for easier slicing.
For an extra cheesy experience, add more mozzarella on top before baking.

Best Ways to Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Serve this cheesy baked ziti dish with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a glass of red wine for a delightful dining experience. For a lighter option, consider adding sautéed vegetables on the side.

Million Dollar Baked Ziti: 7 Cheesy Comfort Food Secrets - Million Dollar Baked Ziti - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Million Dollar Baked Ziti

This dish is excellent for meal prep! To store, cover it tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. You can also freeze it for later, making it a convenient option for busy nights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Million Dollar Baked Ziti

What’s the secret to perfect Million Dollar Baked Ziti?

The secret lies in the balance of creamy cheeses and flavorful meat sauce. Make sure to use high-quality marinara sauce and let the dish rest before serving for the best texture.

Can I make Million Dollar Baked Ziti ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you are ready to serve. This makes it a fantastic option for gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Million Dollar Baked Ziti?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the pasta before baking and let the dish rest after baking. This keeps it from becoming too saucy.

Variations of Million Dollar Baked Ziti You Can Try

Consider trying a vegetarian Million Dollar Baked Ziti by substituting the meat with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. You can also make a Million Dollar Baked Ziti with sausage for a different flavor profile. For a spicy kick, add more red pepper flakes or jalapeños.

For more tips on meal prep, check out this guide. If you’re interested in variations, you might enjoy these ideas. Additionally, learn about the best pasta types for baked dishes.