Million Dollar Baked Ziti: Your New Favorite Comfort Dish!

Why Make This Recipe

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is an irresistible comfort dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. This recipe combines your favorite pasta with rich meats and cheeses, creating a delightful meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights. The hearty flavors and creamy textures make it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s easy to make and even easier to love!

How to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat; drain excess fat.
4. Add minced garlic, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture; simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti hot from the oven. Slice it into squares and add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or additional Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. This dish pairs well with a side salad and garlic bread, making it a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

How to Store Million Dollar Baked Ziti

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze baked ziti for up to 3 months. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Tips to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti

• Use a mix of meats for added flavor. Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef.
• Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meat sauce for more nutrition.
• For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Variation

You can easily make a vegetarian version of Million Dollar Baked Ziti by using lentils or mushrooms instead of meat. Just prepare the sauce without meat and add your choice of vegetables.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

2. Is it possible to use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free ziti or any other gluten-free pasta for this recipe.

3. How do I know when it’s done baking?
The baked ziti is ready when the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. You can also check the internal temperature; it should be around 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.