Million Dollar Baked Ziti
A comforting baked ziti dish that combines creamy cheese, hearty pasta, and rich marinara sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz ziti pasta Provides a hearty base.
- 24 oz marinara sauce Rich tomato goodness.
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage Adds depth; can swap for turkey or plant-based alternative.
- 1 one onion, chopped Enhances flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds aroma.
Cheeses
- 15 oz ricotta cheese Delivers creaminess.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded Melty and stretchy.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Adds nutty flavor.
Binders and Seasoning
- 1 one egg Helps bind the ingredients.
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning Adds herby goodness.
- to taste salt and pepper Enhance flavors.
Garnish
- to taste fresh basil Optional for freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil water in a large pot, then add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes.
- While the pasta cooks, chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Cooking and Assembling
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat; add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the meat is browned and the onion is soft.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer.
- In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, and Italian seasoning until smooth.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce in a large baking dish, then dollop the ricotta mixture on top, and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Baking and Serving
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Notes
Use fresh herbs for flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine for richness, and feel free to swap meats with veggies like spinach or mushrooms. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.