Print

Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Print Recipe

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a rich, creamy, and comforting baked pasta dish combining ziti noodles, a luscious cheese blend, savory marinara sauce, and Italian spices. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this easy-to-make recipe delivers cheesy goodness with minimal fuss and is versatile enough to be adapted to various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz dry ziti pasta

Cheese Mixture

  • 15 oz ricotta cheese (preferably whole-milk)
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Cheeses for Topping

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Remaining grated Parmesan cheese

Sauce and Meat

  • 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)

Aromatics & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, etc.)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the dry ziti until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the other ingredients.
  2. Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add ground beef or Italian sausage, cooking until browned and crumbly. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then simmer briefly to combine flavors.
  3. Mix the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, half of the grated Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture adds creaminess and helps the baked ziti hold its shape once baked.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, spread the cheese mixture evenly, spoon over half the meat sauce, then repeat. Top everything with shredded mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.
  5. Bake Until Bubbly: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes to brown and bubble the cheese on top. Let it rest 5 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Notes

  • Slightly undercook pasta (al dente) so it finishes cooking in the oven without becoming mushy.
  • Drain pasta well and toss with olive oil to prevent excess water that can make the dish watery.
  • Use whole-milk ricotta for extra creaminess and richer flavor.
  • Allow the baked ziti to rest after baking to set layers and make slicing cleaner.
  • Optional: Add extra mozzarella or sprinkle with fresh chopped basil for a fresh finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked ziti, million dollar baked ziti, creamy baked pasta, cheesy pasta bake, Italian baked pasta, comfort food, family dinner

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/million-dollar-baked-ziti/