Million Dollar Baked Ziti: A Rich and Comforting Delight

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a delightfully creamy and cheesy pasta dish that’s filled and topped with a luscious blend of cheeses and sauce. It’s not heavy or overly rich either. I think it’s a perfect comforting meal for any occasion, and if you’re not a fan of ricotta, feel free to substitute with cottage cheese.

It will still be undeniably delicious! If you’re looking for a hearty & cheesy dish that’s not overly complicated, you’ve come to the right place. When you make ziti pasta and pair it with a creamy cheese mixture and marinara sauce, you get the perfect casserole. The addition of mozzarella and Parmesan just sends it over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for a cozy and satisfying meal, and this dreamy baked ziti reminds me of family gatherings and home-cooked comfort. Not a fan of ricotta? Don’t worry, it’s still delicious with cottage cheese.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Aluminum foil
• Knife
• Cutting board

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 2 cups cooked ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Baked Ziti:
   • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Add half of the cooked ziti pasta in an even layer. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the pasta. If using cooked ground beef or Italian sausage, sprinkle it over the cheese mixture. Pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over the cheese and meat. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, cheese mixture, and marinara sauce.
5. Top with Cheese:
   • Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the assembled ziti.
6. Bake the Ziti:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your Million Dollar Baked Ziti!

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its creamy, cheesy goodness and savory flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds!