There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta dish that brings the whole family to the table. Million Dollar Baked Ziti isn’t your average pasta bake—it’s rich, creamy, and loaded with layers of flavor. This dish is a celebration of gooey melted cheese, savory meat sauce, and perfectly baked pasta, all tied together with a secret ingredient that gives it that “million-dollar” taste.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a cozy dinner for your family, or craving a dish to make everyone say “Wow!”, this baked ziti recipe is your go-to. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to create this mouthwatering masterpiece.

Why Is It Called Million Dollar Baked Ziti?

The name says it all—it tastes like a million bucks! This dish earned its name because it takes a humble pasta bake and elevates it into something truly luxurious. Creamy layers of cheese mixed with a perfectly seasoned meat sauce give this ziti a richness that feels indulgent. It’s the kind of meal that makes ordinary weeknights feel special and guarantees rave reviews every time you serve it.

What Makes Million Dollar Baked Ziti So Special?

• Layers of Flavor: Each bite is an explosion of savory sauce, melted cheese, and tender pasta.
• The Secret Ingredient: A creamy layer of ricotta and cream cheese sets this baked ziti apart from traditional recipes.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake it when you’re ready—convenience meets deliciousness.

Ingredients for Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Here’s what you’ll need to create this spectacular dish:

For the Pasta and Meat Sauce:

• 1 pound ziti pasta (or penne)
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix of both)
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Layer:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish, optional)

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

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the ziti pasta until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Pro Tip: Slightly undercook the pasta since it will continue cooking in the oven.

3. Prepare the Meat Sauce

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
• Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to deepen the flavor.

4. Make the Cheese Mixture

In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, 1 large egg, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Pro Tip: For added flavor, sprinkle in a pinch of Italian seasoning or a dash of garlic powder.

5. Layer the Ziti

Now comes the fun part—assembling the dish! Here’s how to layer your Million Dollar Baked Ziti:

1. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the greased baking dish.
2. Add half of the cooked ziti pasta.
3. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the pasta.
4. Pour half of the remaining meat sauce over the cheese layer.
5. Repeat the layers (pasta, cheese, sauce).
6. Top with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for that golden, bubbly finish.

6. Bake the Ziti

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.

Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, broil the ziti for 2-3 minutes at the end.

7. Let It Rest and Serve

Once baked, let the ziti rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutrition per serving (based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450 kcal
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	10g
Sodium	800mg
Fiber	3g

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on ingredient brands and substitutions.

Tips for the Best Million Dollar Baked Ziti

1. Use Good-Quality Marinara Sauce: The sauce is the backbone of the dish, so choose one that’s rich and flavorful.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta ensures it doesn’t turn mushy after baking.
3. Layer Evenly: Spread each layer evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
4. Add Extra Veggies: Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
5. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a kick of heat.

Serving Suggestions

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a meal in itself, but here are a few ideas to complete your table:

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up all the extra sauce.
• Side Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or a simple garden salad for balance.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted broccoli, asparagus, or carrots for a healthy side.

FAQs About Million Dollar Baked Ziti

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the ziti, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes to account for the cold temperature.

2. Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely. Once cooled, wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

3. What’s the best pasta for baked ziti?

Ziti or penne pasta works best because their tube shape holds the sauce and cheese beautifully.

4. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the meat and add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce for a hearty vegetarian version.

5. What’s a good substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese or mascarpone are great substitutes. They offer similar creaminess.

6. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the entire dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

Conclusion: Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti Tonight!

If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion, Million Dollar Baked Ziti is the answer. With its layers of gooey cheese, hearty meat sauce, and tender pasta, this recipe delivers comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re serving a crowd or making dinner for your family, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

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