A Comfort Food Classic with a Decadent Twist

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the rich, cheesy, and satisfying layers of baked ziti. But what if you could elevate this Italian-American classic into a dish worthy of a special occasion? Enter the Million Dollar Baked Ziti—a recipe so indulgent, it lives up to its name. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, a potluck, or simply treating yourself, this recipe promises to deliver big flavors with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves hearty, home-cooked meals with a touch of decadence. With layers of al dente pasta, savory meat sauce, and a luxurious blend of cheeses, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, Million Dollar Baked Ziti is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish:

1 pound ziti pasta
1 pound ground beef
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the ground beef, cooking until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat. Add the marinara sauce to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Mix the Cheeses

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.

5. Assemble the Dish

Layer half of the cooked ziti in the prepared baking dish. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pasta. Add the remaining pasta on top, followed by the meat sauce. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.

6. Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve

Garnish the baked ziti with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan and high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 10 minutes to the covered baking time.
Customize Your Protein: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage to suit your taste.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Large pot
Skillet
Mixing bowl
9×13-inch baking dish
Wooden spoon or spatula
Aluminum foil

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

For longer storage, freeze the baked ziti in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Perfect Pairings

Wine: A robust red wine like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of baked ziti.
Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
Bread: Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the extra sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or any short, tubular pasta works well in this recipe.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Omit the ground beef and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.

How do I prevent the cheese from sticking to the foil?

Spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray before covering the dish, or tent the foil loosely to avoid contact with the cheese.

Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes! This dish freezes beautifully. Assemble and freeze it before baking, or freeze leftovers in individual portions for easy reheating.

Final Thoughts

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food—perfect for feeding a crowd, impressing guests, or treating yourself to a decadent homemade meal. With its rich layers of pasta, cheese, and meat sauce, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! And be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes, tips, and inspiration. Happy cooking!

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