If comfort and indulgence had a culinary love child, it would undoubtedly be baked ziti. But not just any baked ziti—the million-dollar baked ziti. A dish so decadently rich, it feels like a celebration on a plate.
Layers of gooey cheeses, perfectly cooked pasta, savory sauces, and creamy fillings come together to create a gourmet experience from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner or wow your guests at your next gathering? This guide will show you how to create this luxurious baked ziti masterpiece from scratch.
Why Is This Million-Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe a Favorite?
There’s baked ziti—and then there’s this baked ziti. What makes it earn its “million-dollar” title? It’s all about the layers. Each bite offers a symphony of textures and flavors that feel thoughtfully composed.
The creamy ricotta filling with herbs, the rich meat sauce cooked just right, and the golden, melted top layer of mozzarella and parmesan all come together to make an unforgettable dish.
This recipe is indulgent yet comforting, versatile enough for a family dinner yet sophisticated enough for entertaining. It’s the essence of “home-cooked luxury” and only requires basic kitchen skills to pull off.
Ingredients for Million-Dollar Baked Ziti
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound ziti pasta (or penne as a substitute)
For the Creamy Layer:
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons dried basil or Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef, Italian sausage, or a mix of both
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 teaspoons sugar (to balance acidity, optional)
For the Cheesy Top:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing bowls for layering ingredients
- A 9×13-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for mixing
- Aluminum foil for baking
- Kitchen knife and cutting board for prep
How to Make Million-Dollar Baked Ziti
Set aside some time (and love) for cooking, because this dish is truly worth it. Here’s the step-by-step:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the ziti pasta until it’s al dente (check the package for timing). Drain, toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, mix ricotta, cream cheese, sour cream, and half the shredded mozzarella. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Meat Sauce
Heat olive oil in a skillet. Brown ground beef or sausage, then add marinara sauce. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Step 4: Layer It Up
In a 9×13 baking dish, spread a little meat sauce on the bottom. Add half the pasta, half the cheese mixture, and half the meat sauce. Repeat the layers, then top with the rest of the mozzarella and some parmesan.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil (don’t let it touch the cheese) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Serve
Let it rest for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and enjoy!
Best Ways to Serve It
Pair this creamy baked ziti with:
- A Rich, Full-Bodied Red Wine: Opt for a classic pairing like a robust Chianti or a velvety Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the savory layers of cheese and meat sauce.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread with a hint of parsley provides the perfect crispy, indulgent side to soak up the delectable sauce.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the baked ziti.
- Roasted Vegetables: Elegant sides like roasted asparagus, zucchini, or carrots seasoned with olive oil and herbs offer balance and sophistication.
- Tiramisu or Gelato for Dessert: Elevate the dining experience by finishing the meal with a creamy tiramisu or a scoop of rich, artisanal gelato.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Million-Dollar Baked Ziti keeps beautifully.
- Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for longer storage by wrapping individual portions to reheat when needed.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or use the microwave for a faster option.
Fun tip for reheating: Sprinkle fresh mozzarella on top before warming it up for that just-baked experience.
Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti
- Season Each Layer
While the sauce and creamy filling are seasoned, don’t forget to lightly salt the pasta and taste as you go. A perfectly seasoned dish is what takes it from good to phenomenal.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese
Skip the pre-shredded stuff, which often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Freshly grated cheese is creamier and melts like a dream.
- Add a Twist
Feeling adventurous? Try swapping Italian sausage for ground turkey or adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Bake Later
Prep the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining. Just let it come to room temperature before baking.
- Let It Rest
Don’t skip the last step of letting the baked ziti rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve.
In Conclusion
Million-Dollar Baked Ziti is a recipe that takes simple ingredients and turns them into something extraordinary. The layers of creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta create a dish that is truly indulgent and inviting.
It’s no wonder this dish has become a staple in many homes for family dinners and special occasions alike. So go ahead and treat yourself, your loved ones, or your guests to the ultimate comfort food experience with this luxurious baked ziti recipe. Bon appétit!
FAQ’s
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! You can replace the meat sauce with a rich marinara or a vegetable ragu. Adding roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers enhances the flavor and creates a hearty vegetarian version.
Q: Can I freeze baked ziti?
A: Yes, baked ziti is perfect for freezing. Assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container but skip the baking step. Cover tightly, label, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.
Q: What type of pasta works best?
A: While ziti is the classic choice, penne or rigatoni are excellent substitutes due to their similar size and ability to hold the sauce well. Stick to tubular pasta for the best textures and flavors.
Q: How do I prevent the ziti from drying out?
A: To keep your baked ziti moist and luxurious, make sure to use enough sauce and cheese layers. Cover the dish with foil while baking, then remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to allow the top to brown beautifully.
Q: Can I use store-bought sauce?
A: Of course! A high-quality store-bought sauce can save time without sacrificing flavor. To elevate it, consider adding fresh herbs, garlic, or a splash of red wine for that homemade touch.
Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish
- Wooden spoon
- Aluminum foil
- Kitchen knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound ziti pasta or penne as a substitute
For the Creamy Layer:
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons dried basil or Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef Italian sausage, or a mix of both
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 24 oz marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
- 2 teaspoons sugar to balance acidity, optional
For the Cheesy Top:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the ziti pasta until it’s al dente (check the package for timing). Drain, toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Mixture
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, cream cheese, sour cream, and half the shredded mozzarella. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Meat Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a skillet. Brown ground beef or sausage, then add marinara sauce. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Step 4: Layer It Up
- In a 9×13 baking dish, spread a little meat sauce on the bottom. Add half the pasta, half the cheese mixture, and half the meat sauce. Repeat the layers, then top with the rest of the mozzarella and some parmesan.
Step 5: Bake
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil (don’t let it touch the cheese) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Serve
- Let it rest for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and enjoy!
