Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe

There's nothing quite like the rich, cheesy goodness of Million Dollar Baked Ziti fresh out of the oven. With layers of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, savory marinara, and a blend of melty cheeses, this dish tastes like it came straight from an Italian restaurant. The best part? It’s easy enough to make at home, and it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe when I needed a hearty meal to feed a hungry family on a budget. After a few tweaks and additions, it became an instant favorite. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this baked ziti is always a winner.

Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Get ready to add a new staple to your recipe collection. This Million Dollar Baked Ziti is packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for meal prep.

First off, it's incredibly creamy and cheesy. Thanks to a blend of ricotta, cream cheese, and mozzarella, every bite is rich and satisfying. The addition of heavy cream in the sauce gives it a luxurious texture that sets it apart from standard baked ziti recipes.

It’s also budget-friendly. This recipe uses affordable pantry staples to create a meal that feels indulgent without breaking the bank. Plus, it makes enough to feed a crowd, making it perfect for gatherings.

Best of all, it’s make-ahead friendly. You can assemble it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready, making it a stress-free option for busy nights. Leftovers reheat beautifully, so you’ll be glad you made extra.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Million Dollar Baked Ziti lies in its simple yet well-balanced ingredients. Each component plays an important role in delivering that irresistible flavor and texture.

Ziti pasta is the foundation of this dish. Its tube shape helps trap the sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. If you can’t find ziti, penne or rigatoni make great substitutes.

Ricotta cheese brings a creamy element to the filling, giving the baked ziti that classic Italian taste. I like to mix it with an egg and some grated Parmesan for added richness and structure.

Marinara sauce provides the bold, tomato-based flavor. You can use store-bought marinara for convenience, but if you have time, homemade sauce will take this dish to the next level.

A trio of cheeses—mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese—creates the ultimate gooey, cheesy topping. The cream cheese melts into the sauce, giving it a silky consistency that makes this recipe feel extra indulgent.

For the best results, bake this dish in a 9x13-inch casserole dish. A glass or ceramic baking dish helps distribute heat evenly, ensuring a perfectly baked ziti every time.

How To Make This Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Creating this comforting dish is easier than you think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by cooking the ziti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Be sure to drain it well, as excess water can make the dish too soupy.

While the pasta cooks, prepare the ricotta mixture. In a bowl, combine ricotta, softened cream cheese, an egg, and grated Parmesan. Stir until smooth and well combined. This creamy layer is what gives the baked ziti its "million-dollar" taste and texture.

Next, cook the meat and sauce. In a large skillet, brown Italian sausage or ground beef over medium heat. Once browned, stir in marinara sauce and a splash of heavy cream. Let it simmer for a few minutes to develop deep, savory flavors.

Now it’s time to assemble the layers. Start by spreading a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of your casserole dish. Add half the pasta, then dollop half the ricotta mixture over the top. Repeat with another layer of pasta and ricotta, then finish with the remaining sauce.

Finally, top it off with cheese. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan generously over the top. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This Million Dollar Baked Ziti stores beautifully, making it a fantastic meal-prep option.

For refrigeration, let the ziti cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

To freeze, assemble the baked ziti but don’t bake it yet. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

• Swap out the protein: Instead of Italian sausage or ground beef, try using ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even a meatless alternative for a vegetarian version.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy Italian sausage for a kick of heat.
• Use different cheeses: While mozzarella is classic, you can experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a little smoked gouda for a unique twist.
• Add veggies: Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Go low-carb: Substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter take on this dish.

No matter how you customize it, this Million Dollar Baked Ziti is bound to be a hit. Give it a try, and watch it become a new favorite at your table!

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