Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dinner table with the most decadent, irresistible Million Dollar Baked Ziti you've ever tasted. This mouthwatering dish is more than just a pasta recipe it's a creamy, cheesy experience that combines the best of Italian-American comfort food in one spectacular casserole.

Imagine layers of perfectly cooked ziti pasta nestled between rich meat sauce and an abundance of melted cheeses. Moreover, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Whether you're a pasta lover or simply craving something indulgent, this Million Dollar Baked Ziti will become an instant favorite.

Million Dollar Baked Ziti: A Culinary Treasure Worth Every Bite

This isn't just another pasta bake – it's a symphony of flavors that elevates the classic pasta casserole to new heights. Packed with ground beef, Italian sausage, and a trio of creamy cheeses, each forkful promises pure comfort and satisfaction.

Why This Recipe Earns Its Million-Dollar Title

• Incredibly creamy texture that melts in your mouth
• Rich combination of ground beef and Italian sausage
• Multiple cheese layers for maximum indulgence
• Easy to prepare with straightforward ingredients
• Perfect for feeding a crowd with its generous serving size

Pro Tips for Baked Ziti Perfection

Pasta Preparation: Cook the ziti just until al dente. Overcooking will result in mushy pasta that loses its appealing texture.

Cheese Selection: Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor. Fresh mozzarella and real Parmesan make a significant difference.

Meat Matters: Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage thoroughly to develop deep, rich flavors in your sauce.

Make-Ahead Magic: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking, making meal prep a breeze.

Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe Details:

• Preparation time: 25 minutes
• Cooking time: 45 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 8-10
• Equipment: 9x13-inch baking dish, large skillet, mixing bowls

Ingredients:

For the Pasta and Meat:

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ pound Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese Blend:

• 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Garnish:

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the ziti pasta in a large pot of salted water until it reaches al dente texture. Drain and set aside, ensuring not to overcook the pasta.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage along with the chopped onion. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and has developed a nice, deep color.
4. Drain any excess grease from the meat mixture. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aromatic flavors.
5. Pour the marinara sauce into the meat mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. In a separate large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, beaten egg, 1 cup of mozzarella, and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
7. Add the cooked ziti to the cheese mixture, stirring gently to ensure every pasta piece is coated with the creamy goodness.
8. Spread half of the meat sauce evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the cheesy ziti mixture on top, creating a rich, inviting layer.
9. Spoon the remaining meat sauce over the ziti, ensuring complete coverage. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
10. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and develops a light golden color.
11. Remove from the oven and let the baked ziti rest for 5-10 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.
12. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley before serving.

Serving and Storage Suggestions:

• Serve hot, directly from the baking dish for maximum appeal
• Pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread
• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven

Variations and Customizations:

• Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option
• Add spinach or zucchini for extra vegetables
• Use different cheese combinations to suit your taste
• Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes to the meat sauce

Million Dollar Baked Ziti isn't just a meal it's a celebration of comfort food that brings families and friends together. With its rich, creamy layers and satisfying flavors, this dish promises to become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire.

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