Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe
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.
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 9x13 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!
Notes
Baked ziti is a comforting and versatile dish best made with quality ingredients. Don't rush the layering process—each layer of sauce, pasta, and cheese contributes to its rich and decadent flavor profile. Allow it to rest for a few minutes after baking to make serving easier and ensure uniform slices.