Introduction
If you’re in search of a comforting and indulgent pasta dish that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy, look no further than this Million Dollar Baked Ziti. This recipe takes the classic baked ziti to a whole new level with layers of creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and hearty meal. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, so you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right in the comfort of your own home. Get ready to experience the rich and satisfying flavors of Million Dollar Baked Ziti.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
There are countless reasons why you’ll fall in love with making this Million Dollar Baked Ziti. First and foremost, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The combination of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and tangy marinara sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, such as adding vegetables, using different types of cheese, or even swapping out the meat for a vegetarian version. Another reason to love this recipe is that it’s perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the ziti ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Finally, the rich and comforting nature of this dish makes it the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening or sharing with loved ones during special occasions.
Ingredients
- Ziti pasta
- Ground beef or Italian sausage
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Marinara sauce
- Garlic
- Onion
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Directions & Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- In a large baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
- Add a layer of cooked ziti pasta on top of the sauce.
- Spread a layer of the cheese mixture over the pasta.
- Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Million Dollar Baked Ziti contains approximately:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 20g
Variations
- Vegetarian Baked Ziti: Omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Spicy Baked Ziti: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage to give the dish a kick of heat.
- Four-Cheese Baked Ziti: Use a combination of mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone, and fontina cheese for an extra cheesy and indulgent version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this baked ziti ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the baked ziti ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it in the oven as directed.
Q: Can I freeze baked ziti? A: Absolutely! Baked ziti freezes well. After assembling the dish, cover it tightly with aluminum foil and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, bake it from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed.
Pro Tips By Emma
- For the best flavor, use high-quality marinara sauce or make your own from scratch.
- Let the baked ziti rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, add a layer of béchamel sauce between the pasta and cheese layers.
Serving Suggestions
Million Dollar Baked Ziti is perfect for serving as a main dish for family dinners or special occasions. Pair it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, and a glass of red wine for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s also great for potlucks and gatherings, as it can easily be made in large batches and reheated.