Million Dollar Baked Ziti

A Luxurious Pasta Delight

Indulge in the decadent layers of Million Dollar Baked Ziti, where rich cheeses, savory meat sauce, and tender ziti come together to create a dish that feels like a million bucks! This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re in the mood for a comforting, cheesy masterpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked ziti combines layers of creamy, cheesy goodness with a savory meat sauce that tastes like it came straight from a high-end Italian restaurant. It’s easy to prepare, customizable with your favorite ingredients, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for leftovers. A guaranteed hit for pasta lovers of all ages!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ziti pasta: The foundation of this cheesy masterpiece.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: Keeps the pasta from sticking.
  • 2 cups marinara sauce: The heart of the savory sauce.
  • 1 pound ground Italian sausage or ground beef: Adds a hearty, meaty flavor.
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese: For creamy layers.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melty goodness throughout.
  • 1 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy richness.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided: For a savory finish.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic and flavorful.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the dish with classic herbs.
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a hint of heat.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the flavors.
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch.

Directions

  1. Prep the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and toss it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Make the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage or ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Mix the Cheese Layer: In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, sour cream, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese until well combined.
  5. Assemble the Ziti: Spread half of the cooked ziti in the prepared baking dish. Add a layer of half the cheese mixture and half the meat sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, cheese mixture, and meat sauce.
  6. Top and Bake: Top the dish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  7. Serve: Allow the baked ziti to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Servings and Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Servings: 6

Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini.
  • Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños to the sauce.
  • Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina for unique flavors.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free.
  • Extra Creamy: Add a layer of béchamel sauce for an ultra-rich version.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Warm portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
  • Freezing: Freeze the baked ziti before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

FAQs

  1. How do I prevent the ziti from becoming mushy?
    • Cook the ziti until just al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
  2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    • Yes! Assemble the ziti, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
  3. What type of marinara sauce should I use?
    • Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor. Homemade or store-bought both work well.
  4. Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?
    • Absolutely. Cottage cheese provides a similar creamy texture, though the flavor will differ slightly.
  5. How can I make this dish healthier?
    • Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt, use lean ground meat or turkey, and opt for whole wheat pasta.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a hearty and comforting dish that’s easy to make and even easier to love. With layers of cheesy indulgence and robust meat sauce, it’s a meal that truly satisfies. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special gathering, this baked ziti is sure to impress.

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