Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe

If you’re craving comfort, you absolutely have to try Million Dollar Baked Ziti. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleasing casserole—tender ziti noodles enveloped in savory marinara, layered with rich, creamy ricotta, perfectly seasoned beef or sausage, and plenty of gooey, molten cheese. The magic is in its simple assembly and how every bite delivers that “can’t-stop-eating” feeling. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends for a cozy dinner, this Million Dollar Baked Ziti always brings people to the table with smiles (and second helpings).

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Million Dollar Baked Ziti is how a handful of kitchen staples come together in the most delicious way. Every ingredient serves a purpose, balancing hearty flavors, creamy textures, and cheesy, golden perfection.

• Ziti pasta: The sturdy shape holds up to layering and soaks in all the amazing flavors from the sauce and cheese.
• Ground beef or Italian sausage: Adds rich, meaty flavor—the sausage gives extra depth with its herbs and spices.
• Marinara sauce: A good-quality jar or homemade sauce ties everything together; go for robust, garlicky tomato flavor.
• Ricotta cheese (whole milk): Creates that irresistible creamy middle layer that feels almost decadent.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (whole milk): Melts into stretchy, gooey bliss on top and throughout every layer.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A nutty, salty kick that brings the whole ensemble up a notch.
• Italian seasoning: Those dried herbs (basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme) are the secret to classic ziti flavor.
• Garlic (minced): Three cloves might sound like a lot, but they mellow out beautifully as they cook and add real depth to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out all the bright, bold flavors in each layer.

How to Make Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Step 1: Cook the Ziti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add your ziti pasta, and cook it just until al dente—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. You want the noodles to have a slight bite because they’ll soften further while baking. Drain the pasta well and set it aside as you prepare the other layers. This ensures your Million Dollar Baked Ziti won’t turn mushy in the oven.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Set a skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef or Italian sausage. Break it up with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, making sure it’s evenly browned throughout. Drain off any excess fat, which keeps your casserole from getting greasy. Next, toss in your minced garlic and let it sauté with the meat for a minute or two, just until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the seasoned meat, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and let the whole mixture simmer for about five minutes. This melds the flavors together nicely and gives the sauce a heartier texture that clings perfectly to the noodles in your Million Dollar Baked Ziti.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Mixture

In a medium mixing bowl, add your ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and a spoonful or two of grated Parmesan. Stir it all together until you have a creamy, dreamy cheese mixture. This layer is what gives Million Dollar Baked Ziti its signature richness—you’ll want to sneak a taste!

Step 5: Layer Everything

Lightly grease your favorite baking dish, then start layering like a true casserole artist. Spread half the ziti across the bottom, top with half the meat sauce, and scatter big dollops of the cheese mixture all over. Repeat to use up the rest of the ingredients, ending with a final layer of meat sauce, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top for that golden, bubbly finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven (375°F) for about 25 minutes. This helps everything meld together and heat through. Uncover, sprinkle on any remaining cheese, and return to the oven for another 15 to 20 minutes. Watch as the top bubbles and transforms into a cheesy, irresistible crust—Million Dollar Baked Ziti at its finest!

How to Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Garnishes

To really make your Million Dollar Baked Ziti sing, scatter freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top just before serving. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan adds a salty, fancy finish—like the bow on a present!

Side Dishes

Balance out this rich, cheesy main dish with simple sides. Garlic bread is a classic (perfect for sopping up sauce!), or try a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables to add color and nutrition to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style gathering, bring the bubbling casserole right to the table and let everyone dig in. If you’re feeling fancy, serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti in individual ramekins for personalized portions. For a potluck, line your dish with parchment so guests can easily lift out neat squares—every bite looks like it’s straight from an Italian trattoria.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Let your Million Dollar Baked Ziti cool completely, then transfer pieces to airtight containers and refrigerate. It will keep beautifully for up to four days, staying fresh and flavorful for quick lunches or easy dinners.

Freezing

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a freezer superstar. Wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to three months. For extra convenience, freeze in single portions—future you will thank you on a busy night.

Reheating

To reheat, simply cover and bake in a 350°F oven for about 25 minutes if chilled (longer if frozen), or microwave individual portions until hot and bubbly. The flavors deepen with time, so leftovers are sometimes even better than day one!

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape for Million Dollar Baked Ziti?

Absolutely! Penne or rigatoni can work beautifully if you don’t have ziti on hand. Just be sure to use a sturdy shape that catches the sauce and cheese in every bite.

Is there a vegetarian version of Million Dollar Baked Ziti?

Yes! Simply skip the meat or replace it with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a hearty, veggie-packed version that’s just as satisfying.

Can I make Million Dollar Baked Ziti ahead of time?

You sure can. Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, let it come to room temperature, then bake as directed.

What’s the best type of marinara sauce to use?

Go with your favorite jarred marinara for ease, or make a simple homemade version if you have extra time. Look for sauces with minimal sugar and lots of herb and tomato flavor—after all, sauce is the heart of Million Dollar Baked Ziti.

How do I keep the cheese from burning?

That last oven blast is key. Keep the dish covered for most of the baking, only removing the foil for the final 15-20 minutes. If the cheese gets too dark, tent with a bit of foil until serving time.

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve experienced the creamy, cheesy magic of Million Dollar Baked Ziti, it just might become your new go-to comfort meal. It’s a dish that feels both homey and special—and it’s so simple, anyone can make it (and love it). Gather your favorite people, pop this in the oven, and get ready to make some delicious memories.

Print