There’s something truly magical about a bubbling, golden casserole, and nothing proves it quite like Million Dollar Baked Ziti. This irresistible twist on a classic Italian-American favorite combines tender pasta, a lavish combination of cheeses, savory meat sauce, and gooey mozzarella baked to perfection. The best part? Each bite delivers creamy, cheesy comfort in a way that feels fancy enough for guests, yet cozy enough for weeknights. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers that taste even better the next day, this is the dish that wins hearts—and appetites—every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Million Dollar Baked Ziti may sound like a splurge, but the beauty is in its simplicity! Each ingredient plays a special role, from adding depth of flavor to giving the casserole its trademark creamy, cheesy layers. Here’s what you’ll need for the ultimate baked ziti experience:
- Ziti Pasta: The short, ridged noodles hold sauce beautifully and form the hearty base for this casserole.
- Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Adds robust flavor and texture—pick your favorite, or even mix both for extra richness.
- Marinara or Pasta Sauce: A good quality jar brings vibrant tomato flavor and ties all the ingredients together.
- Garlic Powder: One small scoop infuses a subtle garlicky warmth without overpowering the dish.
- Italian Seasoning: This blend of dried herbs gives the sauce its unmistakable Italian-American flavor.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning each bite just right.
- Cream Cheese (softened): The secret to that silky, “million dollar” richness in every layer.
- Ricotta Cheese: Adds a soft, creamy tang and authentic Italian texture—cottage cheese also works if needed.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of tangy sour cream boosts creaminess and balances the cheese blend.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (divided): For ultra-melty, stretchy cheese pulls and a bubbly top.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkled on top for a salty, golden finish that makes every slice pop.
- Chopped Parsley (for garnish): Fresh and vibrant, this finishing touch adds color and a touch of brightness.
How to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Step 1: Preheat and Boil the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s piping hot and ready. Meanwhile, cook your ziti pasta in a large pot of well-salted boiling water until it’s just al dente. The pasta will finish cooking in the oven, so don’t let it get mushy! Drain and set it aside—the star of our Million Dollar Baked Ziti is ready for its big moment.
Step 2: Make the Savory Meat Sauce
In a large skillet set over medium heat, add your ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until it’s beautifully browned, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain off any extra fat so your casserole isn’t greasy. Stir in your favorite jarred marinara, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Allow it all to simmer together for five minutes—this melds the flavors and thickens the sauce, setting the stage for an unforgettable Million Dollar Baked Ziti.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Layer
In a mixing bowl, combine your softened cream cheese, creamy ricotta, tangy sour cream, and one cup of mozzarella. Stir everything until smooth—this blend is what makes this dish feel downright luxurious. If you’re feeling adventurous, now’s your chance to add chopped spinach for a little color and nutrition, giving a personal twist to your Million Dollar Baked Ziti.
Step 4: Build the Layers
To assemble, start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of your perfectly cooked ziti noodles on top, then gently spread the entire cheese mixture over them, making sure every nook is covered. Add the remaining pasta, then pour over all that savory meat sauce. Finish by scattering the rest of your mozzarella and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan over the top, ensuring your Million Dollar Baked Ziti gets that signature golden, bubbly finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover your casserole with foil to keep it moist and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes until the top is beautifully browned and bubbling. Let your Million Dollar Baked Ziti rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing—this helps it set and makes serving a breeze.
How to Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Garnishes
A final flourish of freshly chopped parsley brings a pop of green and a burst of freshness to your Million Dollar Baked Ziti. You can also scatter a bit of extra Parmesan just before serving for even more savory goodness and a restaurant-worthy look that’s sure to wow.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole pairs perfectly with a crisp Caesar salad, garlicky roasted broccoli, or a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. For truly classic comfort, serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up every last bit of cheesy, meaty sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try baking Million Dollar Baked Ziti in individual ramekins or small skillets—everyone gets their own bubbly, golden top! For potlucks or parties, consider portioning the ziti into muffin tins for portable, grab-and-go servings. It’s also delightful arranged in a big dish for family-style meals, just waiting for everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Million Dollar Baked Ziti keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Just let it cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to airtight containers to keep it moist and flavorful. The flavors deepen even more overnight, making leftovers a sought-after treat!
Freezing
For the easiest freezer meal, assemble the casserole right up to the baking step, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as directed—add a few extra minutes to the oven time if baking from cold for a perfect, piping-hot Million Dollar Baked Ziti.
Reheating
To reheat, place portions in the microwave with a splash of water and cover loosely to keep everything moist and melty. Or, for that fresh-from-the-oven feel, reheat the whole dish in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until hot. The cheese will melt beautifully all over again, and your casserole will taste just as delicious as day one.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! While traditional ziti works best because of its tubular shape and ability to hold sauce, penne or rigatoni are great stand-ins for Million Dollar Baked Ziti. Just avoid very small shapes, as they can get lost in the layers.
Do I have to use both cream cheese and sour cream?
For the creamiest result, I highly recommend including both—the cream cheese brings lushness, while the sour cream adds tang. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with more ricotta or even cottage cheese, but the unique texture is part of what gives Million Dollar Baked Ziti its name.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply skip the meat and use your favorite plant-based crumbles, sautéed mushrooms, or a medley of roasted vegetables to create a fabulous vegetarian version of Million Dollar Baked Ziti that’s just as hearty and delicious.
What’s the best way to prevent the ziti from getting mushy?
The key is to cook your pasta just until al dente. Since it finishes cooking while baking in the oven, starting with slightly firm noodles ensures your Million Dollar Baked Ziti keeps its delightful texture and doesn’t turn soggy.
Can I assemble Million Dollar Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Yes, this is a perfect make-ahead dish! Assemble up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as instructed. This makes entertaining and weeknight dinners a breeze.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that checks every box—comforting, crowd-pleasing, and outrageously delicious—Million Dollar Baked Ziti truly lives up to its name. Layer on the love, bake until bubbly, and you’ll understand why this has become a favorite in so many kitchens. Give it a try, and watch as it disappears from your table in no time!
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Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this decadent Million Dollar Baked Ziti, a cheesy and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Layers of pasta, creamy cheeses, savory meat sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella will make this a family favorite!
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Pasta: Cook ziti pasta until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: Cook ground beef or sausage, then add pasta sauce, seasonings, and simmer.
- Make Cheese Mixture: Combine cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, and mozzarella.
- Assemble Dish: Layer pasta, cheese mixture, and meat sauce in a baking dish.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake, then remove foil and bake until bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Let it rest before serving and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- You can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta or add spinach for extra nutrition.
- This dish freezes well before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
