Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe

If you have a craving for a dish that feels like a celebration in every bite, then Million Dollar Baked Ziti is exactly what you need to try. This hearty, cheesy bake combines perfectly cooked pasta with robust Italian sausage and ground beef, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce and layers of creamy cheeses. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing classic that delivers bold flavors and a luscious texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you make this Million Dollar Baked Ziti, it’ll become your go-to dish for dinners, potlucks, and those cozy nights when you want something truly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the list intimidate you—these ingredients are simple but play a major role in shaping the taste, texture, and irresistible aroma of this dish. Each component adds its own special touch to make the Million Dollar Baked Ziti the showstopper it is.

• 1 pound ziti pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto every bit of sauce and cheese for maximum flavor in every forkful.
• 1 pound ground beef: Adds savory richness and a hearty texture that complements the cheese beautifully.
• 1 pound Italian sausage: Brings smoky seasoning and a distinct Italian flair that deepens the flavor profile.
• 2 cups marinara sauce: A robust tomato base infused with garlic and herbs to tie the dish together perfectly.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, this layer adds luscious moisture and luxury to every bite.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to bubbly, gooey perfection that gives this dish its iconic cheesy pull.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty notes that enrich the entire flavor while offering a slightly salty kick.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a little zing that wakes up all the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil that delivers authentic Italian taste.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the dish perfectly.

How to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until it’s just al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. The pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite because it will cook further in the oven. Once cooked, drain and set aside, but don’t rinse—this helps the sauce stick better.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and Italian sausage along with the minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This meat mixture is the savory foundation of your Million Dollar Baked Ziti.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, meat mixture, and marinara sauce. Give it a good stir until everything is evenly coated. This step ensures every bite bursts with the perfect balance of pasta, sauce, and meat flavors.

Step 4: Layer the Cheese

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, start by spreading half of the pasta mixture. Then dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the top and sprinkle with half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Layer the remaining pasta mixture and finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that golden, bubbly crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the assembled dish for around 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving; this helps the layers set so every slice looks as good as it tastes.

How to Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a pop of bright color and fresh herbal notes that cut through the richness. For a little extra indulgence, a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes brings added depth.

Side Dishes

This dish is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread creates a wonderfully balanced plate. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also complement the cheesy, meaty flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Million Dollar Baked Ziti in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets to keep it hot and crusty right at the table. Adding a ramekin of extra marinara on the side invites guests to customize each bite. Alternatively, you can sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs on top before baking for an irresistible crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Million Dollar Baked Ziti, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually meld more overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This baked ziti freezes wonderfully, making it a perfect freezer-friendly meal. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or cover the whole dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20 minutes. This method keeps the pasta tender and melts the cheese perfectly without drying out the dish. You can also microwave single servings, but cover loosely to retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I make Million Dollar Baked Ziti vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the ground beef and sausage for your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even plant-based meat substitutes to keep the dish hearty and flavorful without the meat.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates the iconic texture and taste of Million Dollar Baked Ziti. Ricotta adds creaminess, mozzarella melts beautifully, and Parmesan brings a sharp, nutty finish.

Is it okay to use store-bought marinara sauce?

Definitely. A good-quality store-bought marinara sauce works just fine and saves time. If you prefer, you can jazz it up with extra garlic, herbs, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for more flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake later?

Yes, prepping the ziti and layering with cheese and sauce the day before can save time. Cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight, then bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

How do I know when the Million Dollar Baked Ziti is fully cooked?

You’ll want the cheese on top to be melted and bubbly with a light golden crust. The pasta should be tender, and the sauce hot all the way through. Usually, 25-30 minutes in a 375°F oven hits this sweet spot perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is one of those recipes that brings comfort and joy with every cheesy, saucy bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or entertaining friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to pull together. Give it a whirl, and I promise you’ll be adding this decadent baked pasta to your recipe repertoire time and time again.

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