Why Make This Recipe
Million Dollar Baked Ziti is one of those comforting dishes that bring everyone together. It’s rich, cheesy, and perfectly filling. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, which makes it a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of flavorful beef, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella creates a delightful layer of taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
How to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, onion, and garlic, cooking until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until combined.
- In a large baking dish, combine ziti, beef sauce, and the ricotta mixture. Mix well.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.
How to Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti hot from the oven for the best taste. You can pair it with a fresh side salad and garlic bread to round out the meal. For an extra touch, offer some grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes on the side for those who like a little heat.
How to Store Million Dollar Baked Ziti
If you have leftovers, let the baked ziti cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm it in the oven until heated through or microwave individual portions.
Tips to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti
- Feel free to add veggies like spinach or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra nutrition.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.
- If you like a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- Make it ahead of time! You can prepare it the day before and bake it just before serving.
Variation
For a vegetarian option, you can omit the ground beef and use sautéed mushrooms or vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers as the base. This way, you still keep the dish hearty and delicious.
FAQs
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish a day before, cover it, and keep it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni.
What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or mascarpone for a similar creamy texture.