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million dollar baked ziti in a white casserole dish topped with melted cheese and basil

Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Charlotte
Ultra-creamy, cheesy Million Dollar Baked Ziti layered with hearty meat sauce and a rich ricotta-cream cheese filling. This comfort-food classic is perfect for family dinners, holidays, or make-ahead meals and tastes even better the next day.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 Servings
Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients
  

Ziti Pasta

Meat Sauce

Creamy Cheese Layer

Topping

Instructions
 

Cook the pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the meat sauce

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat until fully cooked. Add onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
  • Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.

Prepare the creamy cheese mixture

  • In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the baked ziti

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Add half of the pasta, followed by half of the meat sauce and half of the cheese mixture. Repeat layers.

Top and bake

  • Sprinkle remaining mozzarella evenly over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  • Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.

Rest and serve

  • Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the pasta—it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • Use full-fat dairy for the richest texture.
  • Let the baked ziti rest before serving for cleaner slices.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 28gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 14gSugar: 7g
Keyword Million Dollar Baked Ziti
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