There's nothing quite like the cheesy, comforting aroma of Million Dollar Baked Ziti wafting through your kitchen. This rich, indulgent dish layers tender pasta, creamy cheeses, and hearty sauce into a casserole that lives up to its luxurious name. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe has the magic ability to please everyone at the table.

I first discovered this recipe while looking for a way to impress my in-laws at a holiday gathering. One bite of the creamy ricotta layer combined with the savory marinara, and I knew I had struck gold. It's since become a staple in my kitchen for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike.

Why You'll Love This Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Get ready to add a true showstopper to your recipe repertoire. This Million Dollar Baked Ziti is as delicious as it is versatile, making it a go-to for any occasion.

First and foremost, this recipe is ridiculously easy to make. With a few pantry staples and some prep, you'll have a dish that tastes like it came from an Italian restaurant. Even better, you can assemble it ahead of time and bake when you're ready.

Next, let’s talk about the flavor and texture. The creamy cheese mixture melts into the pasta, while the marinara sauce adds a tangy, savory bite. And don’t even get me started on the gooey, golden mozzarella layer on top – it's pure perfection.

This dish is also incredibly customizable. Swap out ingredients to suit dietary preferences, add veggies, or use different types of cheese – it’s almost impossible to mess up.

Lastly, this recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or meal-prepping for the week, this baked ziti delivers plenty of servings without breaking the bank.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Million Dollar Baked Ziti lies in the perfect combination of simple, accessible ingredients. Here's a closer look at what makes this dish so irresistible:

Ziti Pasta: This tubular pasta is ideal for holding onto the sauce and cheese, creating pockets of flavor in every bite. You can substitute penne or rigatoni if needed.
Marinara Sauce: Use a high-quality store-bought marinara or make your own. The sauce forms the base of the dish, so a flavorful one makes all the difference.
Ricotta Cheese: The creamy layer of ricotta gives this dish its "million-dollar" feel. Full-fat ricotta works best for a rich texture, but you can use part-skim if preferred.
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Adding meat to the sauce brings depth and a hearty component. You can opt for a vegetarian version by omitting the meat or replacing it with mushrooms or spinach.
Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese: Mozzarella gives that classic gooey topping, while Parmesan adds a nutty, salty punch. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged varieties.
Special Equipment: A 9x13-inch baking dish is perfect for layering this casserole. If you want to freeze it for later, use an aluminum tray for easy storage.

How To Make This Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Creating this indulgent baked ziti is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for a dish that will have everyone raving.

Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the ziti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. The pasta will finish cooking in the oven, so don't overcook it.
Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, cook ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Make the Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, one egg, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. This creamy mixture will form the heart of your casserole.
Layer the Ingredients
In your baking dish, start with a thin layer of meat sauce. Add half the cooked pasta, followed by the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Storage Options

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is just as great the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Freezer: Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Meal Prepping: Divide into smaller portions for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of Million Dollar Baked Ziti is its flexibility. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a veggie-packed twist.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or use spicy Italian sausage.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with provolone, gouda, or even a hint of blue cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Healthier Option: Swap out ricotta for cottage cheese or use whole-grain pasta for added fiber.

No matter how you customize it, this baked ziti will be a crowd-pleaser every time. Don't be afraid to experiment and find your own signature twist!