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Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe

Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 21 reviews

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a rich and hearty Italian-American casserole featuring perfectly cooked ziti pasta mixed with savory ground beef and Italian sausage, layered with tangy marinara sauce and creamy ricotta, then baked until bubbly with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, delivering bold flavors and satisfying textures.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 pound ziti pasta

Meat

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound Italian sausage

Sauces & Cheese

  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the meat mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking up the meat into small pieces as it cooks, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Add the seasonings: Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning into the cooked meat. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine the sauce and meat: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the meat mixture. Stir well and simmer on low heat for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
  5. Assemble the baked ziti: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix gently until evenly incorporated.
  6. Layer the casserole: Transfer half of the ziti mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Repeat with the remaining ziti mixture and cheeses, ensuring a generous cheesy topping.
  7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
  8. Serve: Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
  • You can substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni pasta if preferred.
  • Use low-fat cheeses for a lighter dish but expect a slight difference in creaminess.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freeze nicely for up to 2 months.
  • Adding fresh basil or parsley on top before serving adds freshness and color.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked ziti, Italian casserole, pasta bake, comfort food, cheesy pasta

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