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Million Dollar Baked Ziti

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This Million Dollar Baked Ziti is the ultimate cheesy comfort food! Layers of tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella come together to make a hearty dish that tastes like a million bucks. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you want a filling, crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

  • For the Pasta & Sauce:
  • 1 lb (450g) ziti pasta
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • For the Cheese Mixture:
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup cottage cheese (optional, for creaminess)
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • To Finish:
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Cook pasta: Boil ziti in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Make sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef/sausage and cook until browned. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Mix cheese filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, cream cheese, cottage cheese (if using), egg, Parmesan, and 1 cup mozzarella. Mix until creamy.
  • Assemble ziti: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Layer half of the pasta, then half of the cheese mixture, followed by more sauce. Repeat with remaining pasta, cheese, and sauce.
  • Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella on top.
  • Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve warm.

Notes

  • You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • Add spinach or zucchini for extra veggies.
  • Make ahead: assemble and refrigerate (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Freezer-friendly: Bake, cool, and freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/million-dollar-baked-ziti/