Baked ziti is a comforting classic that everyone seems to love. It’s cheesy, hearty, and perfect for family dinners. This version is simple to put together, making it great for busy nights or gatherings with friends. Your kitchen will smell amazing as it bakes, and everyone will be eager to dig in.
Why You Will Love This Million Dollar Baked Ziti
This baked ziti is a dish that brings smiles to faces. It’s packed with flavor and made with everyday ingredients. The rich, cheesy layers make it a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s easy to prep, so you won’t spend all day in the kitchen.
How to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Making this dish is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps. You’ll cook the pasta, brown the meat, mix up the cheeses, and layer everything in a baking dish. Then, it’s all baked until bubbly. The result is a warm, cheesy casserole that’s delightfully tasty.
What You Need
- 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
Step-by-Step
- 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.
How to Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti
This baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a light soup. For a special touch, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. Enjoy it on busy weeknights or during family gatherings.
How to Store Million Dollar Baked Ziti
To keep your baked ziti fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for later enjoyment; just make sure to wrap it tightly. To reheat, simply bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions until warm.
Recipe Tips
- Cook pasta just to al dente; it will continue to cook while baking.
- Feel free to swap the meat for turkey or plant-based options.
- Use fresh herbs if you have them; they enhance the flavor.
- Adding extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms can make it healthier.
- If you prefer a crispy top, bake uncovered for a few extra minutes at the end.
Variations & Swaps
- Try using different pasta shapes like rigatoni or penne.
- Mix in some sautéed spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Replace the beef with ground turkey or omit the meat for a vegetarian version.
- For a spicy kick, use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
FAQs
Can I make this baked ziti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish and assemble it in advance. Just refrigerate the unbaked casserole and bake it right before serving. If it’s cold from the fridge, it may need a little extra baking time.
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Once it’s cooled, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. It will stay fresh in the freezer for about 2-3 months.
How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, place your leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal.
Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese works well in a pinch. You may also use cream cheese mixed with a bit of milk for a different texture.
What are some common mistakes to avoid?
Make sure not to overcook the pasta before baking; it should be just slightly firm. Also, if you want a rich flavor, don’t skip the Italian seasoning or garlic—they’re key to a tasty dish!
Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 12 oz ziti pasta Cook until al dente.
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage Choose according to preference.
Sauces and Cheeses
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (whole milk)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- 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.
Assembly and Baking
- 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.
