Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with hearty flavor, this Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a showstopping comfort dish that’s worth every bite. With layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, velvety cream cheese mixture, and bubbling melted cheese, it’s the ultimate baked pasta recipe for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving something cozy and indulgent.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich & Creamy Layers – A luscious mix of cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella makes every bite irresistible.
Hearty & Filling – Packed with seasoned meat and pasta for a satisfying meal.
Easy to Make Ahead – Assemble it in advance and bake when ready.
Perfect for a Crowd – Feeds a group and makes excellent leftovers.
Total Comfort Food – Like lasagna’s easy-going cousin, but even cheesier.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta:
1 lb ziti pasta (or penne)

For the Meat Sauce:
1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Cheese Layer:
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
1 egg (for richness)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt

For Topping:
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Tools You’ll Need
Large pot (for pasta)
Skillet (for meat sauce)
Mixing bowls
9×13-inch baking dish
Spatula or spoon
Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the ziti according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook another minute.
Pour in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Layer
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, and salt.
Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Layer the Ziti
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread 1 cup of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add half of the cooked ziti pasta.
Spread the entire cream cheese mixture over the pasta layer.
Add half of the remaining meat sauce on top.
Layer the rest of the ziti, then top with the remaining meat sauce.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.

Step 5: Bake the Ziti
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh finish.
Serve hot with garlic bread and a crisp side salad.

Tips for the Best Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Use Full-Fat Dairy – For the richest, creamiest texture.
Don’t Overcook Pasta – It will finish cooking in the oven.
Mix Sauces – Try combining marinara and a bit of Alfredo for added richness.
Add a Layer of Spinach – For a veggie boost and color.
Make Ahead – Assemble up to 2 days ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Serving Suggestions
With Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
Side Salad – A crisp Caesar or Greek salad balances the richness.
Roasted Veggies – Try broccoli, zucchini, or carrots on the side.
Topped with Red Pepper Flakes – For a little heat.
Drizzled with Olive Oil – Adds a finishing touch of flavor.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze fully baked ziti for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly and label.

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat at 350°F, covered with foil, for 20–25 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual portions in 30-second intervals until hot.
Add a splash of water or sauce if it looks dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different pasta?
   Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or rotini all work well.
2. Can I make this meatless?
   Absolutely. Omit the meat or use plant-based ground alternatives.
3. What’s the best cheese to use?
   Mozzarella for meltiness, ricotta or cottage cheese for creaminess, and Parmesan for sharp flavor.
4. Can I freeze this before baking?
   Yes! Assemble, cover tightly with foil, and freeze unbaked. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 60–70 minutes.
5. Is this like lasagna?
   It has similar layers and flavors, but it’s quicker and easier to prepare without noodles or bechamel.

Final Thoughts
Million Dollar Baked Ziti is comfort food at its finest—rich, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible. It’s a classic dish made even more indulgent with creamy layers that melt into every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping ahead for a busy week, or bringing a dish to share, this recipe will always be a winner.

Try it out and let me know how your ziti turns out! Don’t forget to leave a review or tag your cheesy masterpiece—I’d love to see it!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – yields 8):
Calories: 510 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 39g | Fat: 28g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 640mg

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