There's nothing like the comforting, cheesy goodness of Million Dollar Baked Ziti filling your kitchen with its rich aroma. This dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining tender pasta, a creamy cheese layer, and a savory tomato sauce baked to bubbly perfection.

I first discovered this recipe when hosting a last-minute dinner party, and it has been a hit ever since. Easy to make ahead and perfect for feeding a crowd, it’s the kind of recipe that makes you look like a star in the kitchen without breaking a sweat. Let’s dive into why this baked ziti deserves a spot on your table!

Why You'll Love This Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Get ready to fall head over heels for this irresistible baked ziti. It’s not just a meal; it’s a true experience of comfort food at its best.

First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but it comes together quickly enough for a weeknight dinner.

Second, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding picky kids, impressing dinner guests, or making a meal to share, this recipe always delivers rave reviews.

Third, the layers of flavor are unmatched. From the creamy ricotta mixture to the zesty marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella, every bite is pure indulgence.

And don’t forget the versatility! You can customize it with your favorite proteins, veggies, or even gluten-free pasta for a dish that suits your family’s preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Million Dollar Baked Ziti lies in its simple ingredients, each contributing to its rich and hearty flavor profile.

Ziti pasta: The backbone of this dish, ziti’s tubular shape holds the sauce beautifully. Penne or rigatoni can also work if ziti isn’t available.

Ricotta cheese: The creamy layer comes from a blend of ricotta and cream cheese. This combination gives the dish its signature "million-dollar" richness.

Ground beef or sausage: For a hearty, flavorful sauce, I recommend using ground beef, Italian sausage, or a mix of both. If you prefer a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.

Marinara sauce: Use a high-quality store-bought marinara or make your own if you have time. A rich, flavorful sauce is key to this dish’s success.

Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses: A generous amount of shredded mozzarella creates the gooey, melty topping, while Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish.

For equipment, you’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for the sauce, and a 9x13-inch baking dish for assembly.

How To Make This Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Creating this dish is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the best baked ziti of your life.

Start by cooking the ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Be sure to undercook it slightly since it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

While the pasta cooks, prepare the meat sauce. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat. Drain any excess grease, then stir in your favorite marinara sauce. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.

In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, a cup of shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. This creamy mixture is what gives the dish its "million-dollar" texture.

To assemble, spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a greased baking dish. Add half the pasta, then layer on the creamy cheese mixture, spreading it evenly. Top with half the remaining sauce. Add the rest of the pasta, then the rest of the sauce. Finally, sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Storage Options

This dish is a lifesaver when it comes to meal prep and leftovers. Here’s how to store it for maximum freshness.

To refrigerate, transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

For freezing, assemble the baked ziti in a freezer-safe dish before baking. Wrap tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen at 375°F for about an hour, or until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it easy to adapt to your preferences.

For a meatless version, swap the ground beef for sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Want to add a spicy kick? Use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.

If you’re watching your carbs, try using a low-carb pasta or zucchini noodles. It’s a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

Experiment with different cheeses! Swap the mozzarella for provolone, or add a layer of fontina for an extra creamy finish.

No ricotta on hand? Cottage cheese works as a substitute, though the texture will be slightly different.

With these variations, you can make this baked ziti your own. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household—enjoy!