Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors, cheesy goodness, and hearty pasta, look no further than this Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is sure to impress. What makes this baked ziti stand out from the rest? It’s the luxurious combination of ricotta, sour cream, and mozzarella that takes it to the next level. Ready to make your kitchen smell like pure Italian comfort? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Million Dollar Baked Ziti:

• 1 pound ziti pasta: Any tube-shaped pasta will work, but ziti holds the sauce well.
• 1 pound ground beef: Gives the sauce richness, but you could swap for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• 1 jar (24 oz) sauce: Use your favorite brand, or make your own for an extra personal touch.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess to the dish.
• 1 cup sour cream: Enhances the creamy texture and adds a slight tang.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts beautifully on top and throughout.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor to the topping.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives the meat sauce a fragrant, flavorful kick.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the garlic and beef.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every layer.
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of freshness to the finished dish.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet for browning beef
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Aluminum foil
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using cooking spray or a light coat of olive oil. This will prevent the baked ziti from sticking to the dish and make for easier cleanup.

2. Cook the Pasta

Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture (slightly firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. You don’t want to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to soften while baking.

3. Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles with a spoon. Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat.

Stir in the sauce and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This rich meat sauce is the heart of the dish, providing bold flavor with each bite.

4. Mix the Cheeses

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 cup sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Stir until well blended. This creamy mixture is what gives the ziti its “million dollar” texture—luscious and rich without being too heavy.

5. Assemble the Ziti

Now it’s time to layer the ingredients for baking. Begin by spreading half of the cooked ziti in the prepared baking dish. Over this layer, spread the cheese mixture evenly. Top it with the remaining ziti pasta.

Pour the meat sauce over the pasta layers, making sure to cover the entire surface. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a deliciously cheesy crust.

6. Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to ensure even cooking. Bake the ziti in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, with a golden-brown finish.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving—this helps the layers set. Garnish with fresh basil for a burst of color and fresh flavor if desired. Now, serve warm and savor each delicious bite!

Recipe Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Since the pasta will cook further in the oven, make sure to only cook it to al dente.
• Let the dish rest: After baking, allowing the ziti to sit for 5-10 minutes makes it easier to serve and helps the flavors meld together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the seasoning: Make sure to season both the meat sauce and the cheese mixture with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
• Not draining the pasta well: Excess water can make the dish soggy, so be sure the pasta is well-drained.
• Forgetting to cover the dish: The foil helps keep moisture in, preventing the top from browning too quickly.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, pair your Million Dollar Baked Ziti with a fresh garden salad or a side of steamed vegetables. Garlic bread is also a perfect companion to mop up all the extra sauce. You can add a dash of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Variations of Million Dollar Baked Ziti

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of spinach and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the ziti pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

How to Store and Reheat

• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute ziti with penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta that holds sauce well.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What side dishes go well with baked ziti?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread complements the richness of the baked ziti perfectly.

conclusion

This Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a showstopper that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its rich, cheesy layers and hearty meat sauce make it a family favorite. Ready to impress your guests with this ultimate baked ziti? Give it a try, and don’t forget to share the recipe and subscribe to our blog for more delicious dishes like this!

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