Ah, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite comfort foods: Million Dollar Baked Ziti! This dish holds a special place in my heart, not just because it’s downright delicious, but because it’s steeped in warm memories and hearty gatherings. Picture this: a chilly Sunday afternoon, the aroma of pasta and melted cheese filling the kitchen while family and friends gather around the table, laughter echoing off the walls. Each bite is a hug from the inside!
What makes this baked ziti so outstanding? Well, it’s a little bit of everything—rich marinara, creamy ricotta, perfectly cooked pasta, and a cheesy goodness that you just can’t resist. When I first made this recipe for my family, I watched everyone’s eyes light up as they took that first forkful. It’s the kind of dish that creates lasting memories and keeps everyone coming back for seconds! So let’s dive into this mouthwatering Million Dollar Baked Ziti recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
What’s in Million Dollar Baked Ziti?
Let’s break down the ingredients that come together to create this triumphant dish:
Ziti Pasta: The star of the show! Ziti holds onto the sauce and cheese beautifully, and it’s just the right shape for this baked dish.
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for a hearty base, but feel free to use a mix of meat if you like; this dish is flexible!
Italian Sausage: Give it a kick with some Italian sausage! The spices in the sausage elevate the flavor of the dish. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and complexity to the sauce—it’s all about layering those flavors!
Garlic: Three cloves might seem like a lot, but garlic is life. It adds an aromatic Earthiness that’s simply irresistible.
Marinara Sauce: I always reach for a jar that’s rich and flavorful; it’s the foundation of the dish!
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy goodness adds a rich layer that makes every bite feel luxurious.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nutty flavor, and we use it both in the ricotta mixture and for topping.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The gooey, stretchy cheese everyone loves! It’s the crowning glory of this baked dish.
Dried Oregano & Basil: These herbs bring a taste of Italy to your home-cooked meal and complement the marinara perfectly.
Salt and Pepper: Because every dish needs a little seasoning love!
Fresh Basil Leaves: *Optional*, but they add a pop of color and freshness once you’re ready to serve.
Is Million Dollar Baked Ziti Good for You?
You bet your cheese-loving heart it can be!
Pasta: While hearty, pasta provides energy and can be a great source of carbohydrates. I recommend using whole-grain ziti for added fiber.
Ground Beef: This is a great source of protein, but I like to use lean beef for a healthier option.
Ricotta Cheese: It’s packed with protein and calcium, making it a nourishing ingredient. Just be mindful of the serving size to keep fat intake in check.
One note, though: with all that cheese and sausage, it’s definitely a richer dish, so if you’re watching your calorie intake, you might want to savor this delight on special occasions!
Ingredients for Million Dollar Baked Ziti
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jar (26 oz) marinara sauce
– 1 can (15 oz) ricotta cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
*Serves: 8*
How to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti?
Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to whip up this delicious dish:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)—let that pre-sizzle start!
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to drain it and set aside!
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat for a healthier dish.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce along with the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to develop those flavors.
5. In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, half of the Parmesan, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Get in there and mix it well!
6. In a greased large baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Top it with half of the cooked ziti, and then half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat this layering with the remaining meat sauce, ziti, and ricotta mixture.
7. It’s time to cheese it up! Top everything with the remaining mozzarella and the rest of the Parmesan cheese.
8. Cover your beautiful creation with aluminum foil and bake it in the oven for 25 minutes. Once that’s done, take off the foil for the final 15 minutes to let the cheese get bubbly and golden brown.
9. Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for about 10 minutes before diving in. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if you’re feeling fancy!
A Little Extra Love for Your Baked Ziti
Here are some fun tips and variations to elevate your baked ziti game:
– If you want to sneak in some veggies, chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can be added to the meat mixture—no one will even know!
– For a twist, try adding fresh or dried red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
– Serve your baked ziti with a side salad and garlic bread for the ultimate comfort feast!
I hope you’re as excited about making this Million Dollar Baked Ziti as I am! It really is a slice of happiness, perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just treating yourself on a cozy night in. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out—so drop me a comment and let me know your thoughts! Enjoy your cooking and happy feasting!
