Description

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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Ingredients

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

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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.

Notes

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.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American