Dive Into Comfort with Every Bite

Ever had a dish that hugs you like your favorite sweater? Welcome to Million Dollar Baked Ziti! This recipe feels extravagant, but it’s surprisingly easy to whip up and perfect for cozy dinners. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, it’s no wonder it’s gone viral. Whether you’re impressing guests or feeding the family, this one’s a showstopper!

Why Make This Recipe

Here’s the deal: you’re gonna love this recipe for a few reasons. First, easy cleanup means less time scrubbing and more time enjoying. Second, it’s family-friendly. No picky eaters here! Kids and adults alike will devour this rich and hearty dish. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a meal that tastes like a million bucks without emptying your wallet? 😄

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

12 ounces ziti pasta
3 cups marinara sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

Directions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps for a dish that will steal the show:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
Add the ground beef or sausage. Break it up and cook until browned. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then simmer.
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Grease a baking dish. Layer half the cooked ziti, spread half the ricotta mixture, sprinkle with half the mozzarella cheese, and add half the sauce. Repeat layers.
Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and browned. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti (Overview)

This dish is all about layering love! First, you cook that ziti until it’s perfectly al dente. Meanwhile, you sauté your aromatics to create that homey aroma we all love. Then, brown the meat and blend in luscious marinara. Don’t miss out on making that creamy ricotta mixture — it’s the magic that ties everything together. Assemble, bake, and boom! Dinner is served. 🤤 Pro tip: Let it rest before diving in; your patience will be rewarded!

How to Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Serve up this baked ziti in heaping portions with extra marinara on the side. Consider a sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil for added flair. The melty mozzarella, bubbling up beautifully from the dish, adds a gorgeous golden hue that makes it irresistible. Pair it with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread, and you’ve got the perfect combination of richness and freshness.

How to Store Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Leftover ziti? Yes, please! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Got more than you can handle? Freeze it for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. It’s a fantastic make-ahead meal — perfect for busy weeknights!

Tips to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Don’t skip the salt! It makes a world of difference for the pasta.
Add in any veggies you have on hand like spinach or peppers to boost nutrition.
For a twist, swap Italian sausage for ground turkey or a meat-free option!
Experiment with different cheeses — try mixing in some gouda or provolone for a flavor upgrade.
If you like it spicy, add red pepper flakes to the marinara for some heat.

Variation

You could easily transform this recipe into a vegetarian delight by replacing meat with mushrooms or lentils. For a creamy vegan version, try using cashew cream and vegan cheese. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some spinach and artichokes for a Mediterranean twist!

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

2. What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can use cottage cheese, cream cheese, or even a vegan ricotta made from tofu!

3. Can I freeze Million Dollar Baked Ziti?
Yes! Just ensure it’s cooled completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!