Million Dollar Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone to the table with a grin. Layer upon layer of ziti pasta, rich meat sauce, and a dreamy combination of ricotta, cream cheese, sour cream, and egg create a hearty, velvety filling that feels like a warm hug. Every forkful is a perfect balance of tangy marinara, melty mozzarella, and nutty Parmesan, making this dish both robust and soul-soothing. Whether you’re gathering friends for a casual dinner or simply craving a taste of Italian-inspired home cooking, this baked ziti is a fail-safe favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds.
This recipe is beginner-friendly and flows seamlessly from start to finish. With just 20 minutes of prep, 35 minutes of baking, and a quick 5-minute rest, you’ll have a golden, bubbly masterpiece ready in under an hour. At around 600 calories per generous serving, it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and familiarity. Classified as both a dinner and lunch staple, it’s versatile enough for family meals, potlucks, and looser weekend gatherings. Armed with simple pantry ingredients—pasta, ground beef, jarred marinara—and a handful of cheeses, you’ll feel like a kitchen rock star without breaking a sweat. Sprinkle on some fresh basil leaves at the end, and you’ve got the final flourish that transforms a humble casserole into something that’s truly worth a million bucks.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN MILLION DOLLAR BAKED ZITI
Every ingredient in this baked ziti plays an essential role, contributing to layers of flavor and texture that mingle together in the best possible way.
- Ziti pasta
A tubular pasta that traps sauce in each bite, offering the perfect vehicle for cheesy layers and meaty goodness.
- Ground beef
Provides a savory, hearty foundation. As it browns, it builds rich flavor and a satisfying texture.
- Marinara sauce
Offers tangy tomato brightness and aromatic Italian herbs. It ties the meat and cheese components together.
- Ricotta cheese
Adds a creamy, slightly sweet element that balances the acidity of the tomatoes and saltiness of the cheeses.
- Cream cheese
Boosts richness and creates a luscious, smooth filling that helps the casserole set up beautifully.
- Sour cream
Introduces a hint of tang and lightness, keeping the cheese mixture silky without becoming too heavy.
- Egg
Acts as a binder, ensuring that each layer holds together when you slice into the baked masterpiece.
- Mozzarella cheese
Melts into ooey-gooey strands, delivering that classic pull-apart cheese experience we all love.
- Parmesan cheese
Sprinkles a sharp, nutty finish that contrasts the creamier cheeses and enhances the overall depth.
- Garlic
Infuses the meat sauce with aromatic warmth, elevating every savory note in the dish.
- Italian seasoning
A blend of dried herbs—like oregano, basil, and thyme—that brings authentic Italian flair.
- Salt
Enhances all the flavors, ensuring the sauce, cheese layers, and pasta taste their absolute best.
- Black pepper
Adds a subtle kick that rounds out the seasoning profile of the meat sauce.
- Olive oil
Serves as the flavorful cooking medium for garlic, helping to release its fragrance and complexity.
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Offer a fragrant, herbal garnish that brightens the rich, baked layers when sprinkled on top.
HOW TO MAKE MILLION DOLLAR BAKED ZITI
This section walks you through the step-by-step technique of bringing your Million Dollar Baked Ziti to life. Each stage, from sautéing fragrant garlic to layering creamy cheese mixtures, is designed to be straightforward and approachable—perfect for cooks of any skill level.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensuring a fully heated oven helps the cheese melt evenly and achieve that golden, bubbly top.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent excess moisture in your casserole.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. This gentle cooking releases the garlic’s essential oils without burning.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
5. Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Allow it to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, then remove the pan from heat.
6. In a separate mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, and egg. Mix until the filling is smooth and well combined, ensuring even texture throughout.
7. To assemble, spread half of the meat sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish, creating a flavorful base layer.
8. Layer half of the cooked ziti pasta over the sauce, distributing the noodles evenly.
9. Spread the cheese mixture evenly across the pasta, making sure every bite gets a creamy swirl.
10. Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella cheese over the cheese mixture, adding that essential gooeyness.
11. Layer the remaining ziti pasta on top, followed by the rest of the meat sauce, sealing in all the flavors.
12. Finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, golden topping.
13. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to meld all the layers.
14. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, showcasing that irresistible crust.
15. Let the baked ziti sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired to introduce a final pop of color and herby fragrance.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR MILLION DOLLAR BAKED ZITI
When your Million Dollar Baked Ziti emerges golden and bubbling, the fun of serving it family-style or as individual portions really shines. This dish is at its best when paired thoughtfully to balance its richness and bring out every flavor note. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner, a casual weekend lunch, or a festive gathering, these serving ideas will elevate your meal and make each bite feel even more special. Presentation plays a key role: fresh garnishes, warm bread, and complementary sides can transform a simple casserole into an unforgettable feast.
- Garlic Bread
Serve slices of warm garlic bread brushed with butter, parsley, and a hint of garlic powder. Toast under the broiler until edges are crisp, then arrange alongside the baked ziti for perfect dipping.
- Fresh Green Salad
Toss mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette or balsamic dressing, thinly sliced red onion, and cherry tomatoes. The bright acidity and crisp vegetables cut through the richness of the cheesy layers.
- Red Wine Pairing
Offer a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese. These wines have enough acidity to complement the tomato sauce while enhancing the savory meat and cheese flavors.
- Family-Style Presentation
Present the casserole dish directly on the table with serving spoons and small plates. Garnish the edge with fresh basil leaves and a dusting of Parmesan for a rustic, communal vibe.
HOW TO STORE MILLION DOLLAR BAKED ZITI
Storing your baked ziti properly ensures that leftovers taste just as delicious as the first serving. Whether you’re planning meal prep or saving extras for later in the week, the goal is to maintain flavor, texture, and moisture. With the right methods, you can preserve the creamy cheese layers and tender pasta without ending up with a dried-out or overly saucy casserole. Below are tried-and-true storage tips that will keep every portion tasting fresh, as if it just emerged from the oven. Remember: proper cooling and airtight containers are your best friends when it comes to leftovers.
- Refrigeration
Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or sauce to restore moisture.
- Freezing
For longer storage, freeze in oven-safe, foil-lined pans or freezer bags. Label with the date and keep frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).
- Individual Portions
Divide the baked ziti into single-serving containers before refrigerating or freezing. This method is perfect for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners. Reheat each portion uncovered to avoid sogginess.
- Make-Ahead Preparation
Assemble the entire dish, cover tightly with foil, and store unbaked in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready, simply remove the foil and bake according to the instructions—no extra prep required.
CONCLUSION
Bringing together the comforting layers of ziti, savory beef sauce, and a symphony of cheeses, Million Dollar Baked Ziti is the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a family favorite and a go-to for gatherings. From the first sauté of garlic to the final golden, bubbling cheese pull, each step is designed to build flavor and create a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned home cook, this recipe offers clear instructions, manageable prep time, and the flexibility to adapt—vegetarian swaps, extra spice, or make-ahead convenience. It’s beginner-friendly, yet impressive enough to serve at potlucks, casual dinner parties, and cozy Sunday lunches.
Feel free to print out this article and save it in your recipe binder for those nights when you need a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that feels special without hours of fuss. Below, you’ll find a FAQ section to answer common questions, from cooking times to ingredient substitutions. If you give this baked ziti a whirl, I’d love to hear how it turns out—drop a comment, share your tweaks, or ask any questions you might have. Your feedback helps make this recipe even better, and I’m here to help with tips, troubleshooting, or just swapping stories about cheesy pasta triumphs. Here’s to countless delicious meals ahead!
Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Description
With layers of ziti pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese, this baked ziti is a crowd-pleaser that's both hearty and satisfying. It’s the ultimate cozy dish!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
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Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
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In a separate mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, and egg. Mix until smooth and well combined.
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To assemble the baked ziti, spread half of the meat sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish.
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Layer half of the cooked ziti pasta over the sauce.
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Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pasta.
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Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella cheese over the cheese mixture.
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Layer the remaining ziti pasta on top, followed by the remaining meat sauce.
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Finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
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Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
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Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
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Let the baked ziti sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Note
- Serve with garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or eggplant.
- Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for an extra kick.
