Description
If you’re craving a rich, cheesy, and utterly comforting pasta dish, this Million Dollar Baked Ziti is exactly what you need! Packed with layers of tender ziti pasta, creamy cheese filling, savory meat sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleasing baked pasta perfect for family dinners, holidays, or potluck gatherings.
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Ingredients
For the Pasta and Cheese Layer:
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1 lb ziti pasta
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1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
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1 cup sour cream
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 egg
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
For the Meat Sauce:
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1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
For Topping:
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the meat is browned and cooked through.
Drain any excess fat.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.
Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Mix until smooth and well blended.
Step 4: Assemble the Ziti
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add half of the cooked ziti pasta.
Spread half of the cheese mixture over the pasta.
Top with half of the remaining meat sauce.
Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, cheese mixture, and sauce.
Step 5: Add the Final Cheese Layer
Sprinkle the top evenly with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the baked ziti cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
Cook Pasta Al Dente – It will continue to cook while baking, so don’t overboil it.
Mix Cheeses Well – This ensures a smooth, creamy filling that melts beautifully.
Use Quality Marinara – A good sauce makes a big difference in flavor.
Cover While Baking – Helps keep it moist before uncovering for that cheesy golden top.
Let It Rest – Cooling slightly before serving helps the layers set nicely.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-American