Million Dollar Baked Ziti
A comforting, cheesy casserole that's a hit with both kids and adults, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
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.
Notes
For a special touch, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for later enjoyment.