Million Dollar Baked Ziti

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There is something absolutely magical about a bubbling dish of baked ziti fresh out of the oven. The cheesy layers, the creamy richness, and the heartiness of the pasta make it my go-to comfort dish when I want to impress without too much fuss. I’ve tested countless versions, but this Million Dollar Baked Ziti has earned its name for a reason. It’s everything you want in a baked pasta dish and more.

The first time I made this, it was for a family gathering. I needed something indulgent, easy to prep ahead, and guaranteed to wow a crowd. What I didn’t expect was the complete silence at the table after the first bite, followed by everyone scrambling for seconds. That’s when I knew I had something special. The blend of creamy ricotta, flavorful meat sauce, and gooey mozzarella makes every forkful absolutely divine.

I’ve come back to this recipe over and over again, tweaking it slightly, but never changing its soul. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. If you love recipes like creamy garlic chicken breasts, marry me chicken pasta, or baked ziti with ground beef and ricotta, you’re going to fall in love with this one.

Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Baked Ziti

This isn’t your average baked ziti. It’s luxuriously creamy, thanks to the combination of ricotta, cream cheese, and sour cream layered right into the pasta. The meat sauce is rich and savory, simmered to deepen the flavor, and the golden-brown cheesy topping adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or seasoned foodies, this dish hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s easy to make in advance and stores beautifully.

Ingredients

Ziti pasta: This tube-shaped pasta is ideal for holding onto the creamy layers and capturing the meat sauce in every bite.

Ground beef: The savory base of our meat sauce, adding hearty richness and protein to the dish.

Onion and garlic: Essential aromatics that enhance the flavor of the beef and bring depth to the sauce.

Marinara sauce: A tangy tomato base that binds everything together; use a good-quality jar or homemade.

Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and balances the acidity of the tomato sauce with its mild richness.

Cream cheese: This ingredient elevates the dish to “million dollar” status with its ultra-creamy texture.

Sour cream: It provides a tangy contrast and enhances the smoothness of the filling.

Mozzarella cheese: Melts into a stretchy, gooey layer that finishes the dish with a cheesy blanket.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty edge and helps brown the top to golden perfection.

Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning: These seasonings bring all the components together with balanced flavor.

How to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the ziti pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside. Don’t overcook; the pasta will continue cooking in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic. Drain any excess fat. Add marinara sauce and simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Layer

In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, softened cream cheese, and sour cream. Stir until smooth and well combined. This layer is what gives the dish its signature richness.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

In a large baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce, followed by half of the cooked pasta. Spoon dollops of the creamy mixture over the pasta, then add half the mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous topping of cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

While I love the richness of this Million Dollar Baked Ziti, it’s also easy to adapt. You can swap ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian twist, omit the meat entirely and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.

If you’re lactose-intolerant or prefer a lighter version, use lactose-free cream cheese and sour cream, or substitute with plain Greek yogurt. You can also switch out ziti for penne or rigatoni if that’s what you have on hand. The key is maintaining those luscious layers of creamy filling and hearty sauce.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Million Dollar Baked Ziti pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette. I also like serving it with garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette to soak up every last bit of the sauce. For drinks, a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or a sparkling Italian soda makes a great match.

If you’re serving this for a gathering, consider offering a side of roasted vegetables or a light soup to round out the meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers store incredibly well, which is one of the reasons I love making this dish. Simply cover the baking dish tightly or transfer portions to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven until heated through. Add a splash of marinara sauce if it looks dry, and cover with foil to retain moisture.

For freezing, assemble the dish without baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

FAQs

What makes this Million Dollar Baked Ziti different from regular baked ziti?

The secret lies in the creamy layer made from ricotta, cream cheese, and sour cream. It adds an indulgent, velvety richness that takes it far beyond a standard baked pasta dish.

Can I prepare Million Dollar Baked Ziti ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, just bake it as directed. It’s a fantastic option for meal prep or entertaining.

What type of pasta works best for Million Dollar Baked Ziti?

Ziti is traditional, but penne, rigatoni, or any sturdy tube pasta will hold up well and catch the sauce beautifully.

How do I keep Million Dollar Baked Ziti from drying out?

Cover the dish with foil while baking to keep the moisture in. If reheating leftovers, add a little extra marinara sauce and cover to maintain that creamy texture.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If this baked ziti has you craving more comfort food classics, don’t miss my creamy Tuscan sausage pasta and cheese shrimp penne pasta with spinach. Both are perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners and come together with rich flavors that leave you totally satisfied.

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If you fell in love with this Million Dollar Baked Ziti, make sure to save it! Pin it to your favorite recipe board on Pinterest so it’s always at your fingertips when you’re planning dinner. Sharing is caring—send it to your fellow foodies via text, email, or social media. Trust me, they’ll thank you after one bite.

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